Country music superstar Blake Shelton made his American Music Awards debut on May 26th, delivering a high-energy performance of his new single, "Stay Country or Die Tryin'," from his recently released album "For Recreational Use Only." The performance, broadcast live from Las Vegas, was a celebration of American pride, perfectly timed for Memorial Day weekend.
Shelton, sporting a navy blue striped shirt and a red, white, and blue lapel pin, sang lyrics that resonated with patriotic themes, referencing rural American imagery. The stage backdrop featured a large American flag, reinforcing the song's message of unwavering country roots.
The audience enthusiastically embraced Shelton's performance, especially the concluding moment where he pointed to his lapel pin, underscoring his commitment to his country roots.
The evening was also a family affair. Gwen Stefani, Shelton's wife, graced the AMA stage with a medley of her hits, including "Swallow My Tears," "The Sweet Escape," and "Hollaback Girl." Shelton proudly introduced Stefani before her vibrant performance, which featured playful visuals and enthusiastic audience participation.
Neither Shelton nor Stefani walked the pre-show purple carpet at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, opting to focus on their performances.
Beyond his music, Shelton is expanding his presence on television. His upcoming CBS show, "The Road," is set to premiere this fall, promising a fresh take on the country music competition format. Shelton co-created the show, aiming to discover the next breakout country artist.
"For Recreational Use Only," Shelton's new album released on May 9th, showcases his continued artistic evolution. The 12-track record includes collaborations with Stefani, as well as country legends Craig Morgan and John Anderson. In speaking with The Nashville Tennessean, Shelton shared that his extensive experience in the music industry shaped the album's direction, allowing him to explore his creative ideas and instincts.