Blake Shelton may be Oklahoma proud, but it’s Texas that’s been stealing the spotlight in his life lately. His latest single, “Texas,” just became his 30th No. 1 hit, leading into his upcoming album For Recreational Use Only. And he didn’t stop there—Blake brought the heat to Frisco for the 60th Annual ACM Awards on May 8, where he not only presented but also hit the stage to perform his new chart-topper.
But while the awards show had plenty of standout moments, it was Blake—and his ex-wife Miranda Lambert—who had everyone talking.
A Quiet Storm of Emotion
Both stars delivered emotional performances that left fans buzzing. Miranda took the stage in a bold pink suit to sing “Run,” a ballad from her Postcards From Texas album that many believe touches on the heartbreak of her 2015 divorce from Blake. Lines about clinging to a failing relationship and escaping something that no longer brought joy hit hard with listeners.
Later in the evening, Blake performed “Texas,” a song that stirred even more speculation. In it, he sings about a woman who “cut him loose” and ended up in Texas—a line fans think may not be a coincidence, especially with Miranda sitting in the crowd.
Fans Feel the Sparks—Still
Social media lit up as fans connected the emotional dots. While both Blake and Miranda have moved on—Blake with Gwen Stefani and Miranda with Brendan McLoughlin—their recent performances stirred old memories and new questions.
Some fans even resurfaced a 2013 interview Blake did with Gayle King, where he said of Miranda, “I just could not imagine her not being in my life. I just couldn’t get over her—I know I can’t.” Powerful words that, in hindsight, feel even more poignant.
Life After Love
Despite the rumors and heartbreak of the past, both artists have found happiness again. Yet, their honest and emotional performances reminded fans why their love story captivated the country music world in the first place.
One fan summed it up best: “This is how country songs are born—through our love, our loss, and everything in between.”
And if the ACM stage proved anything, it’s that the stories behind the songs still matter—and still move us.
