In a significant development for classic rock enthusiasts, the original members of the iconic Canadian band The Guess Who, Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman, are set to embark on a tour across Canada in 2026. This announcement follows the successful resolution of a lengthy legal battle concerning the band's name, paving the way for their first joint performances in over 20 years. Their upcoming shows will also feature the esteemed former Eagles guitarist, Don Felder, adding another layer of excitement to this much-anticipated musical comeback.
The journey to this reunion has been complex, primarily due to an extensive legal dispute over the rightful ownership and use of The Guess Who's name. This disagreement, which entangled former bandmates Jim Kale and Garry Peterson, saw Cummings and Bachman filing a lawsuit in 2023. They alleged that the iteration of the band led by Kale and Peterson was misleading fans by presenting itself as the original group, describing it as little more than a tribute act. To press their case, Cummings took the extraordinary step of suspending his publishing agreement with his performing rights organization, a move that sacrificed royalties but effectively barred others from performing the band's hits at concert venues.
The legal contention reached a settlement in September 2024, though the specific terms were not publicly disclosed. Crucially, the agreement confirmed that Bachman and Cummings had successfully secured the trademark to The Guess Who name. This resolution was essential for the duo to reclaim their musical legacy and resume touring under the authentic band identity they helped establish.
The upcoming Canadian tour, kicking off on May 26 at the Avenir Centre in Moncton, New Brunswick, and concluding on June 10 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, represents a momentous occasion. It revives a partnership that was last seen on stage as The Guess Who 23 years ago, with a planned 2020 reunion having been canceled due to the pandemic. Bachman and Cummings expressed their excitement, emphasizing their desire to honor their timeless music and the enduring connection with their fanbase.
The Guess Who gained immense popularity in the 1960s and 70s, producing a string of memorable hits such as “Shakin' All Over,” “Laughing,” “No Time,” “Share the Land,” and their signature track, “American Woman.” Following the success of “American Woman,” Bachman departed to form Bachman-Turner Overdrive, while Cummings pursued a successful solo career after The Guess Who disbanded in 1975. Despite occasional reunion performances in later decades, the band's name continued through Kale’s version, leading to the recent trademark dispute.
The 2026 tour itinerary includes major cities across Canada, promising a nostalgic and powerful experience for fans. This includes stops in Halifax, Laval, Toronto, Hamilton, London, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, and Calgary, along with festival appearances at Ottawa Bluesfest and The Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver.
The resolution of the legal challenges and the subsequent reunion tour signify a triumph for the founding members, allowing them to bring their cherished repertoire back to the stage, performing the songs that have resonated with generations of listeners.