At the ACM’s Girls’ Night Out: Superstar Women of Country event on April 22, 2011, Blake Shelton took a moment to show his deep admiration for Miranda Lambert in a way that only he could. The special event celebrated some of country music’s most influential female artists, including Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, and Martina McBride, but Shelton’s tribute to Lambert truly stood out.
As Lambert’s turn came, Shelton took the stage, humor and warmth in tow, to introduce his fiancée. With heartfelt sincerity, he shared, “She has captured the hearts of millions of Americans, and I’m proud to say that I’m one of them.” His words were genuine, adding a special touch to the evening.
In front of a captivated audience, Shelton began singing Famous in a Small Town, his voice rich with emotion. Throughout the performance, his eyes never left Lambert, who, visibly moved, fought back tears. Her pride and love for him were clear, and his delivery made this tribute one of the evening’s most touching moments.
When the song ended, Lambert smiled, relieved that Shelton had stuck to the original lyrics rather than adding his usual playful twists. With a laugh, she lovingly admitted that, above all, he was her biggest fan. It was a beautiful, personal moment shared between two stars, and one that made the night even more unforgettable.
George Strait’s voice was full of raw emotion, each line of the song delivered with the kind of sincerity only he can muster. Known for his timeless ability to channel deep feelings through his rich vocals, he made every word count. Alongside him, Sheryl Crow added the perfect touch with her harmonies—gentle yet powerful, giving the song an added layer of longing and depth.
As the stadium lights softened to a warm amber hue, the arena transformed from a massive venue into an intimate space, where the audience was pulled into a heartfelt journey of love and loss. Their voices intertwined beautifully, with the steel guitar adding a haunting touch, creating a vivid atmosphere of heartache that lingered in the air.
Sheryl’s presence brought a fresh perspective to this classic, blending her folk-pop style with Strait’s country roots in a way that felt both timeless and unique. The combination of their voices elevated the song to something truly special, turning this performance into a magical experience.
When the final notes faded, the crowd erupted in applause, many visibly moved by the performance. They had witnessed more than just a duet; it was a perfect example of the power of music to connect us all. This unforgettable moment at AT&T Stadium reminded everyone of the power of live music and why country music will always be the soundtrack of life’s most meaningful moments.
Blake Shelton brought classic country vibes to the Grand Ole Opry with a lively performance of “Pickup Man,” paying tribute to the late Joe Diffie. The Opry, a place rich in country music history, was the perfect setting for Shelton’s heartfelt homage to one of the genre’s true legends.
“Pickup Man,” one of Diffie’s most iconic hits from 1994, became a country anthem with its catchy, playful lyrics and upbeat sound. Shelton’s choice to perform it on the Opry stage brought the song’s fun spirit back to life, reminding fans of Diffie’s unique blend of humor and honky-tonk soul.
Shelton, who has long admired Diffie’s impact on country music, performed the song with obvious joy and respect. His deep baritone voice captured the energy and charm of the original, and his engaging stage presence kept the audience hooked from beginning to end. The crowd clapped and sang along, clearly enjoying the nostalgic tune.
Performing at the Opry is a huge honor for any country artist, and Shelton’s tribute highlighted his strong connection to country music’s roots. Backed by a talented band, his version of “Pickup Man” stayed true to the original while adding a bit of his own flair. The lively guitars and rhythmic beats made the performance even more fun, and the audience’s enthusiasm proved that Diffie’s music continues to bring joy to fans across generations.
Blake Shelton has earned a place among country music’s greats, not only through his own success but also by celebrating those who came before him. This performance was a perfect example of his respect for the genre and his dedication to keeping its legacy alive.
As the song came to an end, Shelton’s grin said it all. The standing ovation from the audience showed how much they appreciated the tribute, and social media was soon buzzing with praise for Shelton’s heartfelt performance. By honoring Joe Diffie with such energy and sincerity, Shelton reminded everyone why he’s one of country’s most beloved stars.
Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson’s heartfelt duet, Save Me, has officially claimed the No. 1 spot on Country Radio! Originally featured on Jelly Roll’s 2023 album, Whitsitt Chapel, this emotional track has quickly become a fan favorite.
The song is actually a fresh take on Jelly Roll’s 2020 solo version from Self-Medicated, but adding Lainey Wilson’s powerful vocals has taken it to a whole new level. This milestone marks Jelly Roll’s third country No. 1 and Lainey Wilson’s sixth, proving just how unstoppable they are.
Save Me soared to the top in less than three months after being sent to Country Radio on September 5. It’s just another sign of their incredible impact on the genre. Meanwhile, Lainey is on fire—her latest hit, Wildflowers and Wild Horses, is already climbing the charts at record speed.
The success of Save Me comes after an unexpected wave of online rumors suggesting that Jelly Roll’s wife, Bunnie XO, was jealous of his friendship with Lainey. Bunnie quickly shut that down, joking on Instagram, “It’s actually me that wants Lainey, so do better research. LMAO.”
Since its release, Save Me has been performed live multiple times, including a surprise moment in Austin, Texas, when Lainey walked onstage unannounced to join Jelly Roll. As she stepped into the spotlight, fans went wild, and the duo’s harmonies filled the air with pure magic.
Jelly Roll later shared in an interview that performing Save Me with Lainey is “electric.” He described how, during the line all of this drinking, they lock eyes, and he can feel every bit of pain and emotion in her voice.
Their collaboration first made waves at the 2023 ACM Awards, then again on American Idol, solidifying Save Me as one of the most powerful duets in recent country music.
For Jelly Roll, working with Lainey was a no-brainer. “She’s like a sister to me,” he said. “She has one of the best voices in country music, and we’re already friends, so it was such an easy collab.” He also admitted he didn’t realize how much of an impact the song would have until he heard it from a woman’s perspective.
“Lainey gave this song a whole new life,” he added. “People are hearing it differently now, and it’s putting a whole new energy into the universe.”
Lainey Wilson’s career is on an unstoppable rise, from hit collaborations with HARDY (Wait In The Truck) and Cole Swindell (Never Say Never) to her breakout role on Yellowstone. Yet, despite her packed schedule, she didn’t hesitate when Jelly Roll asked her to collaborate.
“She had a thousand reasons to say no and only one reason to say yes—and she chose the one,” Jelly Roll said. “That’s just who Lainey Wilson is.”
With Save Me topping the charts and their careers reaching new heights, one thing’s for sure—Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson are creating something truly unforgettable in country music.
If you ever needed proof of Elvis Presley’s lasting impact on music, Blake Shelton’s star-studded tribute special on February 17, 2019, was all the evidence you’d need.
Hosted by Shelton himself, the event brought together some of the biggest names in country music, including Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, and Keith Urban, to honor the King of Rock & Roll. But Shelton wasn’t just the host—he also took the stage for some unforgettable performances.
Shelton joined an all-star lineup to close the show with a powerful rendition of If I Can Dream, but that wasn’t his only standout moment. Throughout the night, he delivered electrifying performances of Trouble, Guitar Man, and a medley featuring Blue Suede Shoes, Don’t Be Cruel, and That’s Alright.
However, the true show-stopper of the night? Shelton’s take on Suspicious Minds.
Suspicious Minds has deep ties to country music. After Elvis made it a hit, legends like Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter recorded their own versions, with their duet climbing to No. 2 on the Hot Country Songs chart. In 1992, Dwight Yoakam also put his own spin on it, taking it to No. 35.
By performing the song, Shelton wasn’t just paying tribute to Presley—he was stepping into a tradition carried on by some of country music’s greatest voices. And fun fact: his now-wife, Gwen Stefani, performed the song with No Doubt during an Elvis tribute special back in 2002.
Standing on a small stage in the middle of the audience, Shelton delivered a smooth and soulful rendition of the song, backed by rich harmonies from his background singers. His deep, heartfelt vocals added a new layer of emotion, proving that this wasn’t just another cover—it was a moment.
Fans were captivated, and even the most devoted Elvis purists had to admit that Shelton did the song justice.
After watching his performance, we can’t help but hope he’ll record Suspicious Minds for an album one day—his voice fits the song perfectly, don’t y’all agree?
Alan Jackson is closing the curtain on his legendary career with his farewell tour, Last Call: One More for the Road. Although the tour began in 2022, Jackson took a brief hiatus before returning to the stage—despite his diagnosis of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a progressive neurological condition. Now, as the final leg approaches, the country icon is preparing for his last scheduled performance on May 17 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
With his touring days coming to an end, Jackson is embracing every moment—and his recent show at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida, was no exception. During the emotional evening, he delivered a deeply personal performance of “Drive,” a beloved hit from his 2002 album of the same name.
Before launching into the song, Jackson took a moment to share its heartfelt origin with the audience. “This is a song I wrote quite a few years ago when my daddy passed away,” he explained. “I wanted to write a song for him—I didn’t want to write some old crying-dying kind of thing, you know? When I thought about growing up, all I ever wanted to do was drive something. He taught me all about that, and that’s what this song is about.”
As he sang, the weight of those memories seemed to wash over him. By the time he reached the final chorus, Jackson paused—visibly moved by the tribute to his late father and the realization that this was one of the last times he would perform the song live.
For fans, the moment was a powerful reminder that even country legends find it hard to say goodbye. And for Alan Jackson, each note played on this farewell tour is more than just a performance—it’s a goodbye letter to the music and the fans who have supported him for decades.
Lainey Wilson and Marty Stuart teamed up for a memorable performance of Wilson’s hit song, “Things a Man Oughta Know,” at the Grand Ole Opry, celebrating 100 years of country music. Known as the “home of country music,” the Opry provided the perfect backdrop for this duet, uniting two generations of country artists in a heartfelt tribute to the genre’s lasting legacy.
Lainey Wilson, a rising star in modern country, has captured hearts with her authentic storytelling and blend of traditional and contemporary sounds. “Things a Man Oughta Know,” a powerful ballad about life lessons and personal growth, has earned her widespread recognition, including the CMA New Artist of the Year award. Her performance at the Opry added to her growing reputation as one of country music’s brightest talents.
Marty Stuart, a country music legend with over four decades of experience, brought his timeless presence to the stage. Known for his distinctive voice and commitment to preserving the roots of country, Stuart’s contributions to the genre are undeniable. As a Grand Ole Opry member and five-time Grammy Award winner, his collaboration with Wilson symbolized a beautiful connection between country music’s rich past and its exciting future.
The performance began with Wilson’s soulful vocals, filled with sincerity and emotion, while Stuart’s signature guitar work added depth to the song. Their chemistry was evident, and the crowd responded with applause and cheers, moved by the moment. It was a celebration not only of the music but of the Opry’s role in shaping country music over the past century.
The night was a tribute to the many artists who have graced the Opry stage, from the legends like Hank Williams and Patsy Cline to today’s stars like Wilson. Their duet served as a reminder of the timeless nature of country music, connecting generations through powerful stories and emotions.
In between songs, both artists shared their personal connections to country music. Wilson spoke about her rural Louisiana roots and the traditional sounds that shaped her artistry, while Stuart reflected on the mentors who helped guide his career and emphasized the importance of preserving the genre’s history while welcoming fresh voices.
The performance of “Things a Man Oughta Know” highlighted Wilson’s growing influence in the country music scene and further solidified her place in the genre’s legacy. The Opry’s 100-year celebration was a powerful reminder of country music’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots, and this duet beautifully captured the essence of what makes country music so special. As the night ended, the spirit of the Opry and the enduring power of country music continued to inspire both artists and fans alike.
Kelsea Ballerini took to the Grand Ole Opry stage to perform the timeless country anthem “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool,” part of the 100-year celebration of country music. With her heartfelt performance, she honored the genre’s rich history while also celebrating its ongoing evolution.
Originally made famous by Barbara Mandrell and George Jones in 1981, the song is a nod to country music’s authenticity and resilience. By choosing this iconic tune, Ballerini paid tribute to the genre’s roots, blending respect for its legacy with her own unique style. Her soulful performance struck a chord with the audience, evoking powerful feelings of nostalgia.
As a rising star in modern country music, Kelsea Ballerini is known for her ability to mix contemporary sounds with traditional influences. Her versatility and relatable storytelling have earned her widespread recognition. Performing at the Opry’s centennial celebration further cemented her place among the genre’s brightest stars.
Elegantly dressed, Ballerini stood with confidence, her voice filled with sincerity as she sang each lyric. The audience’s warm applause reflected not just the importance of the song but also Ballerini’s genuine tribute to the genre. The Grand Ole Opry band added an authentic country touch, enriching the moment with their classic sound.
The Grand Ole Opry has always been a cornerstone of country music, welcoming artists from all eras. Ballerini’s performance was a perfect example of this tradition, bridging the gap between the past and the present. Singing “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” was a celebration of the genre’s resilience and its ongoing relevance in today’s musical world.
After the performance, Ballerini expressed how grateful she was to honor country music’s trailblazers, especially Barbara Mandrell, whose influence she admires. It was a moment of reflection on the deep respect and connections that country artists have for the legends who paved the way.
Fans and fellow musicians alike praised Ballerini’s emotional tribute, noting how she brought both classic country spirit and her own modern flair to the stage. It was a reminder of her talent and her genuine love for the genre.
As the last notes faded, the crowd erupted in applause, celebrating both Ballerini’s heartfelt performance and the incredible legacy of country music. This moment encapsulated the Opry’s 100 years of storytelling and the enduring power of a great country song.
Kelsea Ballerini’s rendition of “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” was a perfect tribute to a century of country music—honoring the past, embracing the present, and looking forward to the future. Through her performance, she reminded everyone of country music’s timeless essence: authenticity, resilience, and powerful storytelling.
At the CMT Giants event, Chris Stapleton delivered a deeply moving performance of “Whenever You Come Around,” originally by Vince Gill, as a heartfelt tribute to the legendary artist. Known for his soulful voice and emotional depth, Stapleton brought his own unique touch to this classic ballad, making it an unforgettable moment.
The song is all about love, vulnerability, and the profound emotions we feel when we’re with someone special. Stapleton’s rendition honored Gill’s original, but his powerful vocals and raw style added a fresh, personal twist.
The event was a celebration of Vince Gill’s incredible impact on country music, bringing together top artists to perform his hits. Stapleton’s performance stood out, captivating the audience with his soulful delivery and deep connection to the song.
As Stapleton sang, his voice carried the raw emotion and longing embedded in the lyrics, giving the song a new, contemporary feel while staying true to its heartfelt essence. His signature gritty, bluesy tone added layers of depth to the track, creating an intimate, moving atmosphere that resonated with everyone in the room.
Vince Gill, watching from the audience, was visibly touched by the tribute, as were many of the fans and artists present. The performance’s quiet intensity and Stapleton’s genuine emotion sparked an outpouring of appreciation from the crowd.
This wasn’t just a cover of a song—it was a meaningful tribute, a demonstration of the camaraderie and respect between artists in the country music community. Stapleton’s powerful performance breathed new life into the song, honoring Gill’s legacy while showcasing his own ability to emotionally connect with his audience.
Chris Stapleton is a celebrated singer, songwriter, and musician known for his raw, soulful voice and his ability to blend country, rock, and blues. Born in Lexington, Kentucky, he moved to Nashville in 2001 to pursue songwriting and quickly found success, penning songs for artists like George Strait, Adele, and Luke Bryan. His 2015 debut album, Traveller, launched him into the spotlight and earned him widespread acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards. Songs like “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Parachute” highlighted his powerful voice and emotional depth.
Stapleton’s music is known for its authenticity, with many of his performances featuring his wife Morgane harmonizing by his side. With his signature beard and cowboy hat, Stapleton’s traditional yet gritty sound resonates with fans of both classic country and southern rock. His later albums, including From A Room: Volume 1 and Starting Over, have only solidified his place as one of country music’s most respected and versatile artists.
Beyond music, Stapleton is also a philanthropist, supporting various causes such as veteran’s organizations and disaster relief. His deep artistry and heartfelt storytelling have made him a beloved figure in country music, admired by fans around the world for his raw, authentic sound.
At the Grand Ole Opry’s 100-year celebration, Carrie Underwood paid a heartfelt tribute to Randy Travis with an emotional performance of his timeless hit, “Forever and Ever, Amen.” This moment was not only a moving homage to Travis’s lasting impact on country music, but also a powerful reminder of the Opry’s commitment to honoring its musical legends.
Underwood, radiant in a sparkling gown, took center stage under the iconic Opry backdrop. From the very first note, her voice captured the song’s deep emotion, perfectly conveying the love and devotion at the heart of the classic. With her powerful, soulful delivery, she made the song her own while still paying respect to Travis’s original. The audience was captivated, giving her a standing ovation in response to the raw emotion she brought to the performance.
Released by Randy Travis in 1987, “Forever and Ever, Amen” quickly became one of country music’s most beloved songs, earning Travis a Grammy Award and securing his place as a country legend. Known for his rich baritone and heartfelt delivery, Travis’s music continues to resonate, even as he faces health challenges.
As Underwood sang, the camera captured Travis, sitting in the audience, visibly moved by the tribute. His wife, Mary, was beside him, sharing in the pride and emotion of the moment. It was a powerful reminder of the legacy Travis has built and the lasting impact he has had on country music.
A member of the Opry since 2008, Underwood has always embraced the roots of country music. Her performance of “Forever and Ever, Amen” showed just how deeply she respects the genre’s history and the artists who shaped it. Her tribute to Travis also highlighted the generational respect in country music, where newer artists celebrate and honor the pioneers who paved the way.
After the performance, Underwood addressed the crowd, speaking with deep appreciation about the influence Travis has had on her own career. She expressed gratitude for the chance to honor him at such a special event, and the audience showed their appreciation with another round of applause.
Underwood’s moving tribute was a standout moment in the Opry’s centennial celebration. Her rendition of “Forever and Ever, Amen” reminded everyone of the timeless power of country music to touch hearts and tell stories that endure through generations. It was a fitting salute to Randy Travis and a beautiful reflection of the Opry’s storied legacy.
As the final notes of the song faded, the spirit of the Opry’s 100-year tradition was alive and well. Carrie Underwood’s performance will surely be remembered as a highlight of the night, perfectly capturing the essence of what makes the Grand Ole Opry so special in the world of country music.
