An Inside Look at Touring Life, Mentorship, and the Making of Tomorrow’s Stars

Following his celebrated tenure as a coach on The Voice, country music superstar Blake Shelton is returning to what he loves most — nurturing rising talent. But this time, he’s taking it to the open road.

This fall, Shelton will join forces with fellow country icon Keith Urban and Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan to launch a brand-new CBS reality series titled “The Road.” Set against the thrilling, unpredictable backdrop of life on tour, the show will offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to make it in country music today.

Real Artists. Real Roads. Real Dreams.

In The Road, aspiring country musicians will face off in a unique competition: not on a soundstage, but on the live music circuit itself. Contestants will compete for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to open for Keith Urban at venues across America — and it’s the audience who will decide who moves on to the next stop.

Shelton, known for his laid-back humor and deep industry knowledge, is ready to share the truth behind the spotlight:

“If young up-and-coming artists ever look to me for advice or something,” Blake said, “I damn sure have plenty of it to give.”

Gretchen Wilson Joins as Tour Manager

Bringing even more authenticity to the journey is Gretchen Wilson, the powerhouse behind the hit “Redneck Woman.” Wilson will serve as tour manager and mentor, guiding contestants through the challenges of constant travel, live performance pressure, and the emotional rollercoaster of chasing a dream.

Her firsthand experience — from small bars to massive stages — ensures the show portrays not just the glamour of music, but the grit it demands.

Keith Urban’s Triple Crown Moment

The announcement of The Road comes on the heels of a major milestone for Keith Urban. At the 2025 Academy of Country Music Awards, he received the Triple Crown Award, recognizing his wins as New Artist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Entertainer of the Year — a rare and prestigious honor.

During his emotional acceptance speech, Urban thanked his wife Nicole Kidman, their daughters, and expressed excitement about mentoring the next generation of artists through The Road.

“This tour means more than ever,” Urban said, “because we’re bringing new voices along for the ride.”

The Road: More Than Just a Show

Unlike many traditional music competitions, The Road promises to deliver authentic storytelling, real artist development, and a raw look at life behind the curtain. From late-night soundchecks and unpredictable crowds to life-changing breakthroughs, this series is about heart, hustle, and hard-won growth.

Fans, artists, and country music lovers alike can expect to be inspired — and perhaps even discover the genre’s next big star.

When & Where to Watch

“The Road” premieres this fall on CBS.
Stay tuned for official air dates, behind-the-scenes previews, and a front-row seat to country music’s most heartfelt journey yet