Blake Shelton has never been one to hold back—especially when it comes to showing some good-natured love for his longtime buddy, Trace Adkins. Whether Adkins likes it or not, their friendship is a hilarious blend of admiration, mischief, and a whole lot of teasing that fans can’t get enough of.
During a stop on Shelton’s Friends & Heroes tour at Knoxville’s Thompson-Boling Arena, things took a hilarious turn. After wrapping up a fiery performance of their rowdy duet Hell Right, Shelton decided to crank up the chaos with a surprise kiss—right on Adkins’ cheek. The crowd roared as Adkins, in true gruff cowboy style, recoiled with mock outrage and shoved Shelton away like he was ready to stomp off stage.
“Take it, take it all,” Shelton joked with a grin, totally unfazed. Still playing the part, Adkins growled back, “Don’t kiss me no more,” sending the arena into fits of laughter. It was classic Blake and Trace—equal parts comedy, camaraderie, and country gold.
This wasn’t a one-time prank. Shelton’s playful antics with Adkins have become a staple of their dynamic. The brotherly bond they share—complete with jabs, hugs, and those “don’t-you-dare” moments—is a big reason why fans adore seeing them perform together. Behind the antics, though, there’s a genuine friendship and deep respect, something Shelton makes sure to showcase every time they hit the stage.
Unlike some artists who hog the spotlight, Shelton uses his Friends & Heroes tour as a true celebration of the people who helped shape country music—and those he just flat-out loves to perform with. That night in Knoxville, he rolled through hits like Pour Me a Drink, Neon Light, and the crowd-favorite Austin, but he also stepped back to let his friends shine.
Craig Morgan brought the heart, Deana Carter delivered nostalgic beauty, Emily Ann Roberts impressed with fresh energy, and Trace Adkins—well, he brought the grit and the swagger. The energy peaked when Adkins belted out Honky Tonk Badonkadonk and the emotional You’re Gonna Miss This, before reuniting with Shelton one last time for a rip-roaring rendition of Hillbilly Bone.
By the time Shelton closed the night with God’s Country and God Gave Me You, the message was loud and clear: beyond the hit songs and killer performances, what really makes Blake Shelton special is his big heart—for music, for his friends, and for the fans who’ve been with him every step of the way.
The Friends & Heroes tour isn’t just a concert—it’s a full-blown country celebration. And if Blake and Trace have anything to say about it, you better believe there’ll be more kisses, more laughs, and a whole lot more hillbilly harmony ahead.
