Blake Shelton may have wrapped up his time on The Voice, but the country star is not leaving the TV scene for good. Six months after departing the popular NBC show, where he spent 23 seasons over 12 years, Shelton announced on Tuesday that he’s launching a new singing competition, The Road, on CBS. Co-produced by Yellowstone creator Tyler Sheridan, Lee Metzger, and David Glasser, the show is set to debut next year.
“I’m a huge fan of Taylor’s incredible work, and I’m thrilled to partner with him and my longtime collaborator, Lee, on The Road,” said Shelton, 48, in a press statement. “I know a lot about singing competitions and what it’s like to chase a music dream while living on the road. I’m excited to discover fresh talent and give them a platform to shine.”
This documentary-style competition series will follow a yet-to-be-named headliner “on their journey to discover the next big artist,” according to the network. Contestants will tour with the headliner, “performing as opening acts in various venues across the country. They will compete to win over local fanbases, securing their place in the next city and staying on the tour.”
The series will provide viewers with a “backstage pass into the gritty and unforgiving life of a touring artist.” With exclusive access to behind-the-scenes moments in the music industry, the audience will “witness what happens when some of the best up-and-coming performers pile into a tour bus and handle a demanding schedule while chasing their dreams.”
Sheridan, who is also the creator of the Yellowstone prequels 1883 and 1923, along with Mayor of Kingstown, remarked, “There is a revolution happening in country music. Building a platform with Blake for the next leaders of that revolution is an exciting project. ‘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.’”
Glasser added, “This project has been a true labor of love that Taylor, Blake, Lee, and I have been discussing for a while. I’m incredibly grateful to CBS for supporting us on this journey to bring something truly special to audiences everywhere.”
Metzger noted, “Blake and I have worked together for many years, and now teaming up with Taylor and David is exactly the kind of dream team you want to bring something of this scale to country music fans.”
The Road will premiere on CBS sometime next year. The headliner for the first season will be revealed at a later date.
