Ex-QUEENSRŸCHE singer Geoff Tate has announced the 2026 leg of his 'Operation: Mindcrime - The Final Chapter' tour. The tour will feature the complete performance of the band's classic 1988 concept album, marking the final time the album will be performed live by Tate. The 67-year-old vocalist confirmed that the decision to conclude the tour stems from his physical and emotional state, stating that he wants to perform while still feeling strong, avoiding the risk of touring with health issues.
The tour is a culmination of Tate's long-standing connection to the 'Operation: Mindcrime' series. The third and final chapter of the album, 'Operation: Mindcrime III', was released under Tate's name and not under the QUEENSRŸCHE banner. It follows the perspective of Dr. X, the manipulative figure from the original narrative, and was produced by DISTURBED bassist John Moyer. Guitarist Kieran Robertson, who joined Tate's band nearly a decade ago from Glasgow, co-wrote several tracks on the album and made his recording debut with Tate.
The original 'Operation: Mindcrime' was released in May 1988 and is regarded as one of the greatest concept metal albums of all time. It was certified platinum in the U.S. and has been ranked among the top metal albums by Kerrang! and Billboard. The 2006 sequel, 'Operation: Mindcrime II', was widely criticized as a weak follow-up despite being a solid record.
In April 2014, a legal settlement was reached between Tate and the remaining QUEENSRŸCHE members. The agreement grants Tate the sole right to perform the original 'Operation: Mindcrime' and 'Operation: Mindcrime II' live, while the other members continue with the band under their own name. Tate's successor, Todd La Torre, has released four albums with QUEENSRŸCHE, including 'Condition Hüman' and 'The Verdict'.