Garth Brooks on why he's stopped performing in stadiums

Garth Brooks is taking a break from performing in stadiums because he wants to protect his fans.

In a recent episode of "Inside Studio G" on Facebook Live, the country star explained that he feels an obligation to keep his fans safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why he hit pause on his 2021 Stadium Tour.

"Stadiums are officially out for this year," he declared, saying he will continue to only play small venues until the pandemic is under control. "Dive bars are vaccinated," he said.

Playing before a smaller crowd, Brooks said, will allow for better monitoring on patrons' vaccination status or negative COVID test as they enter the venue.

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Brooks recently amended his Stadium Tour, which he previously postponed amid the rise in COVID-19 cases last year.

Now with a new surge caused by the delta variant, the 59-year-old shifted gears yet again and has kicked off a Dive Bar Tour in its stead.

His trek resumes Oct. 11 in Oklahoma City, where he will play in his native state at the Diamond Ballroom.