Blake Shelton’s new album For Recreational Use Only is full of heartfelt stories and personal touches—but one song in particular stands out. It’s called “Hangin’ On”, and it features none other than his wife and musical partner, Gwen Stefani.
In a recent interview with TODAY, Blake got candid about just how special it is to share the mic with Gwen. “I don’t feel like I want to make a record without a duet with Gwen on it anymore,” he shared. “She’s my favorite person to sing with.” Cue the collective aww from fans everywhere.
The emotional ballad, written by Greylan James, Sam Ellis, and Charles Kelley (of Lady A), paints the picture of someone trying to move on from a past love—only to realize those old feelings still linger. And when Gwen’s voice joins Blake’s in the chorus, the connection feels both real and raw.
Together, they sing:
“I shoulda let go by now / But I keep hangin’ on to every word you said / Like some old faded tee… Wish I could take you off, but you keep hangin’ on to me.”
Despite it being a breakup song, Blake said recording it was actually a blast. “It was so fun,” he laughed, proving that their chemistry is just as strong off stage as it is on.
Blake and Gwen may come from different musical worlds—she’s known for her pop-rock roots, and he’s country through and through—but when they collaborate, magic happens. From “Happy Anywhere” to “Nobody But You,” their duets have become fan favorites. “Hangin’ On” continues that streak, showing how seamlessly they blend their styles.
Their love story is already one for the books. They met as coaches on The Voice back in 2014, and seven years later, they tied the knot at Blake’s Oklahoma ranch. Now, they’re living their dream life—both personally and professionally.
Blake even teased another dream in the works: performing with Gwen and her three sons at the Grand Ole Opry someday. “That would be a lot of fun,” he said. “I know that would be Gwen’s dream come true—to have a family band.”
For Recreational Use Only is Blake’s first studio album in nearly four years, and it marks his debut with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. The 12-track album dives deep into life’s highs and lows, with Blake’s signature honesty and charm. Besides Gwen, the record also features collaborations with country greats like John Anderson and Craig Morgan.
Fresh off his sold-out Friends & Heroes Tour, Blake is back doing what he loves—and he’s doing it with the people he loves most. Whether it’s behind the mic with Gwen or dreaming about future family performances, one thing’s for sure: Blake Shelton is all about making music that feels like home.
