Blake Shelton Says This Artist Has Brought ‘New Energy’ To His Career

Blake Shelton is no stranger to dominating the country music scene, but even icons need a fresh spark from time to time.

Recently, Shelton revealed that a surprising collaborator has reignited his passion for music and brought “new energy” to his career.

Known for his steady rise in country stardom and his long-running stint on "The Voice," Blake Shelton’s latest inspiration comes from outside the traditional country sphere, proving that creative sparks can come from the most unexpected places.

Blake Shelton may be a country music icon, but earlier this year, he found a surprising spark of inspiration in an unlikely collaborator: Post Malone.

The genre-defying rapper and singer teamed up with Shelton for the viral hit “Pour Me a Drink,” which quickly became a fan favorite after its release in late June. The unexpected collaboration highlighted Shelton’s classic country charm perfectly intertwined with Malone’s distinctive fusion of rap, pop, and rock elements.

"I really credit Post Malone for this new energy that I have because I was kind of just complacent and not in any hurry," Shelton told PEOPLE Magazine. "Then that kid came along and asked me to sing on his song with him. It took off and was a big hit this summer, and it reminded me like, 'Hey, get off your ass! This may be your last chance to really take a big swing at this thing.' So here I am."

For Shelton, the collaboration was more than just a successful track—it was a turning point. The country star credits Malone with reigniting his creative spark, describing the experience as a source of “new energy” for his music.

Shelton has gone out of his way to show his appreciation to Malone, acknowledging the profound impact their collaboration had on him.

"I don't know that he believes me. Also, I don't know if you've ever talked to Post Malone, but it's hard to get him to focus sometimes," he joked. "I did send it to him in a text one time, and he wrote back, 'Dude, stop it.' He said something super nice back to me, which I don't want to ruin his image by saying that he's a nice guy."

“Pour Me a Drink” is featured on Malone’s sixth studio album, "F-1 Trillion."

Blake Shelton has debuted his first release under his new label, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville and Wheelhouse Records. The track, a heartfelt lost-love anthem, pays homage to the country sounds of the ’80s and ’90s while also tipping its hat to legendary artist George Strait.

Shelton shared that he felt an immediate connection to the track, describing it as a piece that resonated with him from the start.

“The thing that struck me about ‘Texas’ immediately was how different it sounded for me, and I’m always looking to push myself,” Shelton shared in a statement. “I think there’s something really special about this record and it feels important to me.”

“This is the perfect opportunity to come back with something so different, and it easily felt like it should be the first single,” Shelton continued. “It’s connected with what I’ve done but moves forward at the same time, and it’s the perfect start to the next chapter of my career.”

Titled “Texas,” the song was penned by Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock, Josh Dorr, and Lalo Guzman.

Blake Shelton is bringing his expertise to "The Road," CBS’s first talent competition since "Come Dance With Me" in 2022 and its first music-focused series since "Rock Star" in the mid-2000s. The show will feature contestants performing as opening acts for a yet-to-be-announced music star on tour.

For the project, Shelton is teaming up with "Yellowstone" creator Taylor Sheridan. “I’m a big fan of Taylor’s incredible work, and I’m excited to team with him and my long-time collaborator, Lee, on 'The Road',” Shelton said in a statement, per The Hollywood Reporter. “I know a thing or two about singing competitions and what it’s like to chase a music dream and live life on tour. I’m looking forward to discovering new talent and giving them this platform.”

Competing in various cities, contestants will aim to win over audiences, with fan support determining who progresses to the next tour stop.

This project marks a significant collaboration for CBS, with Shelton and Sheridan serving as executive producers.

“There is a revolution taking place in country music. Building a platform with Blake for the next leaders of that revolution is an incredibly exciting venture," Sheridan added. "No more shiny floors and studio audiences. This is where the rubber meets the road — literally. Get in the van, go to the next town and win the crowd. Do it enough, and you become the next leader. Simple as that.”

The series is expected to debut in the fall of 2025.