Blake Shelton has never been shy about showing his admiration—and playful affection—for fellow country star Trace Adkins. Whether Adkins likes it or not, their friendship is filled with lighthearted moments that always keep fans entertained.
During Shelton’s Friends & Heroes tour, which features artists like Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, and Emily Ann Roberts, he took things up a notch while performing with Adkins. At a stop in Knoxville’s Thompson-Boling Arena, the duo had just wrapped up their duet, Hell Right, when Shelton surprised Adkins with a big, unexpected kiss on the cheek. In classic tough-guy fashion, Adkins pushed him away, acting as if he was about to storm off.
“Take it, take it all,” Shelton joked, before urging Adkins to stay and sing their signature hit, Hillbilly Bone. Adkins, clearly amused but playing along, growled, “Don’t kiss me no more,” causing the crowd to erupt in laughter.
This wasn’t the first time Shelton had shown his over-the-top affection for Adkins, and it surely won’t be the last. The two share a brotherly bond, often teasing each other on and off stage. But beyond the jokes, there’s a deep respect between them, which is why Shelton always makes room for his friends to shine during his shows.
Unlike some headliners who keep the spotlight to themselves, Shelton generously shares the stage with his tourmates. Throughout the night, he performed hits like Pour Me a Drink, Neon Light, and Austin, while also stepping aside for Morgan, Carter, and Adkins to take center stage. The energy reached a peak when Adkins performed Honky Tonk Badonkadonk and You’re Gonna Miss This, before teaming up with Shelton again for Hillbilly Bone.
As the night wrapped up with Shelton’s powerful performances of God’s Country and God Gave Me You, one thing was clear—beyond his incredible talent, it’s his love for music, friends, and fans that makes him such a beloved artist. His Friends & Heroes tour is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of country music and the friendships that make it even more special.
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