Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, and Taylor Sheridan Hit the Road in Search of Country Music’s Next Breakout Star
Music fans are about to see a side of the industry rarely captured on television. CBS’s new reality series, The Road, promises an unfiltered look at the gritty, demanding, and often unforgiving life of a touring musician — and it’s guided by some of the biggest names in country music.
Country superstars Blake Shelton and Keith Urban are teaming up for the series, which follows twelve aspiring artists as they travel across the country, performing night after night to prove they have what it takes to survive — and thrive — on the road. Rather than studio auditions or polished soundstage performances, contestants will face real crowds, real pressure, and real consequences.
Shelton and Urban will also serve as executive producers alongside Taylor Sheridan, the creative force behind the Yellowstone franchise. Together, the trio aims to spotlight not just talent, but resilience, authenticity, and the work ethic required to build a lasting music career.
Gretchen Wilson Takes on a Key Role
Adding even more credibility to the journey is Gretchen Wilson, the Grammy-winning “Redneck Woman” singer, who will serve as the show’s tour manager. In this role, Wilson will mentor the contestants, help manage the realities of life on tour, and draw from her own decades of experience performing on the road.
Calling the opportunity “a highlight of my career,” Wilson said the role allows her to give back in a meaningful way.
“Stepping into the role of ‘tour manager’ for The Road has allowed me to take everything I’ve learned over all my years of touring and pour it right back into these emerging musicians,” she shared.
Special Guest Mentors Join the Journey
Throughout the season, several well-known country artists will appear as guest mentors, offering insight, encouragement, and industry perspective. The lineup includes Jordan Davis, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild, Dustin Lynch, and Brothers Osborne’s TJ and John Osborne, among others.
Meet the Contestants
The full roster of competitors was announced in June and features artists from across the country:
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Adam Sanders — Lake City, Florida
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Billie Jo Jones — Emory, Texas
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Blaine Bailey — Tahlequah, Oklahoma
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Briana Adams — Winchester, Texas
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Britnee Kellogg — Anthem, Arizona
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Cassidy Daniels — Marion, North Carolina
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Channing Wilson — LaFayette, Georgia
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Cody Hibbard — Adair, Oklahoma
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Forrest McCurren — Jefferson City, Missouri
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Jenny Tolman — Nashville, Tennessee
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Jon Wood — Wake Forest, North Carolina
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Olivia Harms — Canby, Oregon
How the Competition Works
Each week, contestants will perform in a different U.S. city as opening acts on Keith Urban’s tour. Performing their original songs, they must connect with live audiences and earn real-time votes to advance. Those who fail to win over the crowd will be sent home — no judges’ saves, no second chances.
What’s at Stake
The artist who proves they can endure the grind and capture audiences night after night will walk away with a $250,000 grand prize and a recording contract — but perhaps more importantly, the experience of living the life they’re chasing.
With its raw format, industry legends at the helm, and real-world stakes, The Road isn’t just about finding the next star — it’s about discovering who’s truly built for the journey.