George Strait announces album, Vegas stint

Country music king George Strait may have quit touring last year, but he's not done singing or performing.

During a press conference Tuesday, it was announced that Strait is releasing a new album, "Cold Beer Conversation," on Friday and that he'll play a series of shows at the new Las Vegas Arena when it opens in 2016.

"I said all along I wasn't going to tour anymore, but I also said that I wasn't retiring by any means and I still wanted to do some dates," Strait said during the press conference. "I've been working a little bit here and there, and I'm really proud of this new album that's coming out ... I think it's a great record - I always say this; I think it's one of the best records I've done. I always shoot for that."

The country music legend ended four decades of touring with his record-setting "Cowboy Rides Away" tour, but has said he'll continue to play the occasional gig and has a deal with MCA to produce additional records. "Cold Beer Conversation" will be available at iTunes, on Apple Music and at Walmart stores.

Strait will play Las Vegas starting on April 22-23 and again on Sept. 9-10.