The 2018 ACM Awards were full of unforgettable moments, but one performance stood out as a true crowd favorite. Making his return to the ACM stage after a brief break, Blake Shelton had fans buzzing with anticipation. Would he sing one of his current hits like “I Lived It” or *“I’ll Name the Dogs”? Nope—he had something even better up his sleeve.
In a surprise twist, Shelton teamed up with country legend Toby Keith for a special performance as part of the show’s “ACM Throwback” segment. The duo chose a song that needed no introduction—Keith’s iconic 1993 debut single, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” With the song turning 25 that year, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Toby was even on tour celebrating the milestone with his Should’ve Been a Cowboy Tour XXV.
As soon as the first chords rang out, the crowd was on its feet. The energy was electric, with fans singing along to every word. Blake and Toby’s performance brought a wave of nostalgia, reminding everyone why “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” remains a country classic.
The chemistry between the two artists was undeniable—two stars from different eras sharing a moment that was both fun and heartfelt. For many, it wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration of where country music has been and how far it’s come.
Hands down, it was one of the highlights of the night—and a reminder that great songs never go out of style.
