Country music star Keith Urban is taking his talents to a new stage with a unique singing competition called The Road. This nationwide search will give rising artists the chance to showcase their skills as they perform as Urban’s opening act during his tour.
Unlike his previous role as a judge on American Idol, this competition offers a fresh twist. Audiences at each show will have a say in which contestants move forward in the competition. Best of all, fans will be able to attend the performances for free.
In a press release, Urban shared his excitement for the project. “I spent a lot of my early life performing in small, rundown pubs, sometimes to just the bartender. That’s why I love the idea of putting artists into real-world situations to see if they’re truly artists,” he explained.
Urban emphasized the importance of hands-on experience in the music industry. “Paying your dues can be tough, but you can’t teach certain things, like how to create a setlist or how to read a crowd. For me, touring has always been my passion, and it’s the best way to grow as a performer,” he added.
The Road brings more star power than just Urban. The show is being executive produced by country legend Blake Shelton, known for his role as a former The Voice judge. “I’ve been part of many singing competitions and know what it’s like to chase a music career. I’m excited to help new talent grow,” Shelton said.
Shelton has teamed up with his production partner, Lee Metzger, along with Taylor Sheridan and David Glasser to bring the show to life. They describe The Road as a blend of a competition show and a docu-series, offering viewers an inside look at the touring life.
Sheridan, also a co-executive producer, stated, “Country music is undergoing a revolution. Partnering with Blake to build a platform for the future of this genre is truly exciting.”
Shelton’s partner, Metzger, added, “Blake and I have worked together for years, and teaming up with Taylor and David is a dream come true. We’re bringing something truly special to country music fans.”
On The Road tour, Urban will perform hits from his latest album High, released last September, along with some of his classic tracks.
The schedule for The Road performances, where Urban will be joined by the show’s contestants, is as follows:
Sunday, March 2 – Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall, Fort Worth, Texas
Wednesday, March 5 – The Factory, Deep Ellum, Dallas, Texas
Sunday, March 9 – Oklahoma Ranch, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Wednesday, March 12 – Cain’s Ballroom, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Monday, March 24 – Minglewood Hall, Memphis, Tennessee
Friday, March 28 – Marathon Music Works, Nashville, Tennessee
Wednesday, April 2 – Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, Tennessee
Tickets for these shows will be available for free on a first-come, first-serve basis. After filming for The Road concludes, Urban will continue with his High and Alive world tour, which will keep him on the road into 2026.
The Road is set to premiere this fall on CBS.
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