On February 17, 2019, Blake Shelton stepped into the spotlight to honor one of music’s greatest icons—Elvis Presley—during a star-studded TV tribute. The event showcased Presley’s lasting impact on artists across genres, from Ed Sheeran and Jennifer Lopez to John Legend, then a coach on The Voice.
Country music heavyweights were also on hand, including Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, and Keith Urban. But the night’s central role fell to Shelton, who didn’t just host—he performed, delivering some of Elvis’ most unforgettable hits.
Shelton wowed audiences with a medley that included “Trouble,” “Guitar Man,” and crowd favorites like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” and “That’s Alright.” Yet it was his rendition of “Suspicious Minds” that truly stole the show.
A Song With Deep Country Roots
“Suspicious Minds” has long been a favorite among country artists. Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter famously took the song to the second spot on the Hot Country Songs chart, while Dwight Yoakam’s 1992 cover also found chart success. Even Gwen Stefani—Shelton’s now-wife—had performed the song with No Doubt during a 2002 Elvis tribute.
By taking on “Suspicious Minds”, Shelton was honoring both the legacy of country greats and a personal connection to Stefani’s musical history.
A Captivating Performance
Performing on a small stage nestled in the middle of the audience, Shelton’s smooth vocals brought the song to life. Background singers added the classic harmonies, creating a slow, soulful rendition that captivated everyone watching. Fans were enchanted, many remarking that his voice seemed perfectly suited for the Elvis classic.
Shelton’s performance was more than a cover—it was a reminder of how Presley’s music continues to inspire new generations. After hearing him sing it, one can only hope he considers recording it for an album—it’s a track that feels made for his voice.
