George Jones is getting ready to retire, but first the iconic entertainer has plans to record what he says will be his final album of new material. Penning several of the songs on the new record will be the Possum's longtime friend -- and a fellow music legend -- Dolly Parton.

"I love Dolly, always have, and I am so honored to be doing a project with her," George tells Billboard magazine. "She's writing most of the songs and we all know what a great songwriter she is. I am just waiting for her to tell me what to sing and when to sing it!"

The country legend is also embarking on his farewell trek, dubbed the Grand Tour, which has stirred up mixed emotions for him. "It is a little bittersweet. I have been blessed to do what I love for all these years and when I return to places that I know I will be performing for the last time it makes me a little nostalgic and sad. I will surely miss my fans and the good people I have met along this journey."

As the Grand Ole Opry member prepares to ease into retirement, he knows exactly how he wants his almost-60 year career to be recalled. "I would like to be remembered as a singer who stayed true to country music and did it my way," he states.

The Grand Tour begins Feb. 2 in Tunica, Miss. Check out George's upcoming concert schedule here.

Watch George Jones' 'Honky Tonk Song' Video

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