Blake Shelton, country music superstar and stepfather to Kingston and Zuma Rossdale, recently gave an exclusive interview to People magazine, sharing insights into how his stepsons are embracing their musical heritage. Published on May 10, 2025, the interview offers a rare glimpse into the family dynamics shaped by a uniquely rich musical environment—and how the boys are carving their own paths onstage.
Growing Up Surrounded by Music
Kingston, 18, and Zuma, 16, are the eldest sons of pop-rock icon Gwen Stefani and rock band Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale. Since marrying Stefani in 2021, Shelton has become a steady presence in their lives, adding his country music perspective to a household already brimming with diverse musical influences. The family also includes younger son Apollo, 11, though the focus remains on Kingston and Zuma’s musical journeys.
Shelton emphasized how being raised in such an environment has nurtured their confidence. “They have three professional musicians in their life and grew up watching performances, knowing how to be onstage,” he told People. This early exposure, Shelton explained, has given the boys a natural ease and comfort when performing live.
Proud Stepfather Watches Sons Shine
Watching Kingston and Zuma perform, Shelton says, has been nothing short of “amazing.” He marveled at their composure, noting, “They are very comfortable and not rattled at all, as if they’ve been performing for 10 years.” This stands in stark contrast to Shelton’s own early days on stage, admitting, “I sure wasn’t that calm when I would get onstage.” His words underscore both the boys’ innate talent and Shelton’s supportive role as a stepfather proud of their accomplishments.
Highlights From Their Performances
Shelton shared that Kingston made his stage debut at Ole Red, a venue tied to Shelton’s brand, back in 2023. Zuma, meanwhile, has been a frequent performer at the same venue, a testament to his enthusiasm and skill. These live performances mark important steps in the boys’ musical development and demonstrate their active engagement with audiences—just like their famous parents.
Different Musical Paths Reflecting Parental Roots
Musically, the brothers have distinct tastes shaped by their lineage. Zuma is “leaning into country music 150 percent,” Shelton revealed, citing Zuma’s love for both classic and contemporary country tunes. He attributed some of this to casual listening during car rides together, noting, “Zuma rides in the truck with me and hears the country station.” Importantly, Shelton emphasized that he never pressures the boys to listen to or perform country music, allowing their interests to develop naturally.
Kingston, conversely, gravitates toward rock, echoing his father Gavin Rossdale’s genre. Reports from other sources highlight Kingston’s admiration for bands like Deftones and Smashing Pumpkins, showcasing a rock sensibility distinct from his stepfather’s country influence.
Family Unity and Fatherly Role
Beyond music, Shelton’s role as a devoted stepfather has been celebrated publicly. A Backstage Country article from June 18, 2025, spotlighted Gwen Stefani’s heartfelt Father’s Day tribute to Shelton, underscoring his positive impact on Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo. While Shelton’s comments about their musical endeavors remain primarily from the People interview, his integration into the family and support for the boys’ artistic pursuits are clear.
Looking Ahead
As Kingston and Zuma continue to explore their musical identities onstage, Shelton remains a proud and encouraging presence. Their story is a unique blending of country, rock, and pop legacies, embodied in two young performers growing confidently under the guidance of three musical icons. For Shelton, watching his stepsons find their voices is both a joy and a testament to the powerful role family plays in shaping artistry.
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This exclusive glimpse into Blake Shelton’s family life reveals not only the natural talent of Kingston and Zuma Rossdale but also the loving support of a stepfather embracing the next generation’s musical future.
