US EditionMusic Review: Blake Shelton returns to his roots with 'For Recreational Use Only'
- Blake Shelton released his 13th studio album, For Recreational Use Only, on May 9, 2025, marking a return to his country roots.
- Shelton created the album amid celebrating his 10-year relationship with Gwen Stefani, with whom he recorded a duet titled Hangin' On.
- Shelton and Stefani live together and spend months preparing their collaborations, discussing lyrics and rehearsing songs before studio sessions.
- Shelton explained that since they share a home, they often sing these songs throughout their daily routines, and described recording Hangin' On as a definite challenge.
- The album highlights lived-in bars and backroad themes, suggesting sustained relevance for Shelton as he balances personal life and a major country career.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Blake Shelton Opens Up About Stepsons Kingston and Zuma Following in Their Parents’ Musical Footsteps
In a new interview with PEOPLE, the country superstar says it's been "amazing" to see his stepsons hit the stageMark Von Holden/Variety via Getty Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani with sons Zuma, Kingston and Apollo in 2023Blake Shelton released his newest album, For Recreational Use Only, on May 9In a new interview with PEOPLE, the country superstar opens up about seeing his stepsons embrace their musical talents"I sure wasn't that calm when I wou…
Blake Shelton's back, but he's 'For Recreational Use Only'
Disney/Larry McCormack Hot on the heels of performing his 30th #1, “Texas,” on the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, Blake Shelton‘s new album, For Recreational Use Only, has arrived — even though it’s been a long time coming. “I can’t believe it’s been four years since we released an album, and I’m excited to get the whole record out there,” Blake says of the 12-track project. “I’ve always been someone who wants to collect great songs but s…
San Antonio Express-News
Music Review: Blake Shelton returns to his roots with 'For Recreational Use Only'
Blake Shelton’s 13th studio album opens with a fitting declaration for both his latest project and the current state of his career. It's “Stay Country or Die Tryin’" and it would be better phrased as a question, The Associated Press' Maria Sherman writes in her review. The superstar is caught between Hollywood and Nashville. In 2025, Shelton performs between worlds. But no matter. He’s dedicated himself to big country radio hits. The songs here …
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