When Blake Shelton says he’s going to do something, he means it. Rain be damned, the country icon jumped in his truck, braved Texas storms, and rolled into Frisco on a mission: to bring down the house at the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards with his fiery new No. 1 hit, “Texas.”
And bring it down he did.
The moment Shelton stepped onto the Ford Center stage, boots started stomping, hands flew in the air, and the crowd erupted with electricity. Clad in denim and determination, Blake launched into the anthemic track with the swagger of a man who knows exactly where he stands in country music—and tonight, that place was on top.
“Texas” — A Full-Circle Moment
Shelton’s 30th No. 1 hit is more than just a single; it’s a comeback anthem. After a four-year break from full albums and years of putting his coaching duties on The Voice before new music, “Texas” marks a rebirth. It’s also the first release from his upcoming album For Recreational Use Only (dropping May 9 via BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records).
He told Country Now just before the show:
“I went through the storm and got excited when I crossed over into Texas… I’m literally going to Texas to sing ‘Texas’ at the ACM Awards — which is pretty cool.”
Fans online couldn’t agree more. “Texas” has already been likened to Shelton’s 2019 smash “God’s Country,” and his decision to return to high-octane, roots-driven country has clearly struck a chord.
A Surprise Reaction from Miranda Lambert
But it was one unexpected audience reaction that had fans talking even more.
As Blake tore through the chorus, cameras panned to Miranda Lambert, seated just a few rows from the stage. The Wildcard singer and Shelton’s ex-wife was visibly moved — then suddenly stood up and started dancing, her fringe jacket swaying as she smiled at the performance.
They haven’t shared a stage in nearly a decade, but the moment spoke volumes: no bitterness, just two country legends bound by history and one unforgettable song.
“It was powerful,” one fan tweeted. “That song, that stage, that look from Miranda. You can’t write stuff like this.”
New Era, Same Blake
With For Recreational Use Only, Shelton says he’s returning to what he loves most: pure country storytelling with a little grit and a lot of heart. The album is expected to feature a mix of Southern rock, honky-tonk bangers, and reflective ballads that tap into the Oklahoma native’s roots.
“It’s been four years, but this feels like the beginning of something,” Shelton shared backstage.
What’s Next?
Shelton teased upcoming tour dates and hinted at a possible duet with a “surprise female artist” on the new album — sparking wild fan speculation.
But for now, one thing is clear: Blake Shelton’s back, and with “Texas,” he’s riding higher than ever.
