Blake Shelton, the Oklahoma-born country music icon, is riding high on a wave of Lone Star love. With his 30th No. 1 hit, “Texas,” topping the charts and his 13th studio album, For Recreational Use Only, set to drop on May 9, Shelton proved he’s still a force in country music at the 60th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards.

On Thursday night, the former Entertainer of the Year took the stage at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, to perform his latest chart-topper and present an award, cementing his deep connection to the state that launched his career. Amid severe storms and a packed schedule, Shelton’s enthusiasm for the ACMs and his new music was infectious, making his appearance a highlight of the milestone celebration.

A Texas-Sized Moment

The 60th ACM Awards were a fitting stage for Shelton, whose ties to Texas run deep. Twenty-four years ago, his debut single, “Austin,” spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, catapulting him to stardom. Now, with “Texas,” the lead single from his forthcoming album,

Shelton has come full circle, celebrating another chart-topping hit inspired by the Lone Star State. His performance of the upbeat anthem at the Ford Center was a crowd-pleaser, blending his signature charisma with the song’s infectious energy.

Despite severe rainstorms battering North Texas and South Oklahoma in the days leading up to the event, Shelton was undeterred. “Just got in my truck and… freaking rain, went through the storm, and I was excited when I crossed over into Texas,” he told Country Now with a grin.

“It was like, wow, I’m literally going to Texas to sing ‘Texas’ at the ACM Awards, which is pretty cool.” The 48-year-old’s enthusiasm was palpable, reflecting his gratitude for the opportunity to perform at the ACMs during such a pivotal moment in his career.

The Power of “Texas”

“Texas,” released under Shelton’s new label, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville and Wheelhouse Records, has been a game-changer for the singer. The track, with its driving rhythm and heartfelt nod to the state’s rugged spirit, has drawn comparisons to his 2019 No. 1 hit “God’s Country.”

Both songs mark significant milestones, with “Texas” ending a five-year gap since Shelton’s last chart-topper. “Ken was telling me, I think how many years, five years since I’d had a number one song,” Shelton shared. “So to your point, I mean it is like a ‘God’s Country’ almost, because I was kind of starting to think, well, maybe that was it.”

The song’s success is a testament to Shelton’s ability to evolve while staying true to his roots. Known for his blend of traditional country and modern flair, he’s crafted a track that resonates with fans old and new. The performance at the ACMs,

backed by a minimalist stage setup that let the music shine, showcased Shelton’s vocal strength and stage presence. As he belted out the chorus, the crowd sang along, proving that “Texas” is more than a hit—it’s an anthem.

A New Chapter with For Recreational Use Only

Shelton’s appearance at the ACMs came just one day before the release of For Recreational Use Only, his first album in four years. The project marks a fresh start after a period of reduced musical output, during which Shelton focused on his 12-year tenure as a coach on The Voice and his growing chain of Ole Red restaurants.

His last album, Body Language (2021), was well-received, but For Recreational Use Only signals a renewed focus on his music career.

The album, described by Shelton as a return to his songwriting roots, features a mix of heartfelt ballads and up-tempo tracks. “Texas” sets the tone, but early reviews suggest the record also includes introspective songs about love, family, and his Oklahoma upbringing. For Shelton,

the album is a chance to reconnect with fans and prove he’s still at the top of his game. “I’ve been doing this a long time, but this one feels special,” he told Billboard in a recent interview. “It’s like I’m starting fresh, but with all the lessons I’ve learned along the way.”

A Career Defined by Longevity

Since bursting onto the scene with “Austin” in 2001, Blake Shelton has built a career that few can rival. With 30 No. 1 singles, 11 studio albums, and six ACM Awards—including the coveted Entertainer of the Year title—he’s a mainstay in country music.

Hits like “Honey Bee,” “Boys ‘Round Here,” and “God’s Country” have become modern classics, blending humor, heart, and honky-tonk swagger. His ability to balance commercial success with authenticity has earned him respect from peers and fans alike.

Shelton’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. His high-profile role on The Voice and business ventures like Ole Red have occasionally pulled focus from his music, leading some to wonder if his best days were behind him. But “Texas” and the buzz surrounding For Recreational Use Only have silenced doubters. At 48, Shelton is proving that his passion for country music burns as bright as ever.

The ACM Awards: A Celebration of Legacy

The 60th ACM Awards were a milestone for the Academy and a perfect platform for Shelton to shine. In addition to performing, he presented an award, bringing his trademark humor to the stage. His presence felt like a nod to the genre’s past and future, as the ACMs celebrated six decades of honoring country music’s best. From legends like Alan Jackson, who also performed, to rising stars, the night was a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal.

Shelton’s connection to the ACMs runs deep. His six wins, including Song of the Year for “The House That Built Me” (performed by Miranda Lambert but written for Shelton), reflect his impact on the industry. Presenting and performing at the 2025 ceremony was a full-circle moment, tying his early Texas-inspired success to his latest chart-topping triumph.

A Star Who Keeps It Real

What sets Shelton apart is his relatability. Whether he’s joking about driving through a storm or sharing stories about his Oklahoma roots, he remains the everyman who never forgets where he came from. His pride in being an “Okie” is matched only by his gratitude for Texas,

a state that’s bookended his career with “Austin” and “Texas.” Fans on social media have flooded platforms like X with praise for his ACM performance, with posts like “Blake Shelton is country music’s heart and soul” and “Texas never sounded so good.”

The video of Shelton’s “Texas” performance is a must-watch, capturing the energy and emotion of a singer at the peak of his powers. Share it with friends and family, not just for the music but for what it represents: a man who’s weathered storms—literal and figurative—to keep country music alive.

Looking Ahead

As For Recreational Use Only hits shelves and streaming platforms, Shelton is poised for a new chapter. With tour plans in the works and a renewed focus on music, he’s ready to build on the momentum of “Texas.” The ACM Awards performance was a reminder that Shelton’s star power is undimmed, and his love for country music is unwavering.

In a genre that thrives on authenticity, Blake Shelton remains a beacon. From his pickup truck to the Ford Center stage, he’s carried the spirit of Texas and Oklahoma with him, proving that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to stay true to your roots. As the ACMs celebrate 60 years, Shelton’s performance was a fitting tribute to the past and a bold step into the future.