Blake Shelton may not be Zuma Rossdale’s biological dad, but when it comes to country swagger, he’s definitely left his mark.
Fans couldn’t help but notice after Gwen Stefani shared birthday snaps of her 17-year-old son: Zuma is starting to look—and act—a lot like his stepdad. From denim jackets to cowboy hats, a guitar in hand, and even the hint of a classic Shelton mullet, Zuma isn’t just dressing up—he’s stepping right into the country scene.
Gwen, never shy about showing her pride, celebrated Zuma’s birthday with a heartfelt post: “Happy birthday to our sweet and talented Zuma!! We love u soooo much!! ❤️” Her carousel of photos and clips showed a boy growing up surrounded by rock, pop, and now a touch of Nashville flair.
One shot captured Zuma tuning an acoustic guitar with a hat tipped low, looking every bit like he’s been learning from Blake for years. Another clip featured him singing a country tune, steady and raw, showing hints that this isn’t just imitation—it’s talent. And throwback pictures reminded fans that music has always been part of his life, from clutching a toy guitar as a toddler to now commanding the stage.
The ultimate highlight? A video of Blake introducing Zuma onstage, proudly calling him, “My man, Zuma Rossdale.” The crowd’s cheer said it all: this wasn’t just a favor—it was a moment that hinted at the next generation of country stars being closer to home than anyone imagined.
Fans quickly flooded Gwen’s comments, noticing the unmistakable influence. “I see that Blake vibe 😍,” one wrote. Another added, “You can totally see Blake’s musical influence on him. This kid is talented.” And one fan nailed it: “The old-school Blake mullet is starting 🔥.”
Zuma isn’t just about looks. He’s already been performing at Ole Red, Blake’s honky-tonk chain, making his debut in 2024 and returning for a few shows since. Blake has been right there cheering him on, giving him the spotlight—but only because Zuma has the talent to back it up.
For Gwen, it’s pure mama pride. For Blake, it’s a proud stepdad moment. He’s embraced fatherhood with Gwen’s three sons—Kingston, 19, Zuma, 17, and Apollo, 11—naturally and wholeheartedly. “I get to teach them the country, you know, and I love that,” Blake said. “When people say it’s not about you anymore when you have a kid… if you’re doing it right, it’s not about you anymore. That’s true.”
Even Zuma’s biological dad, Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale, has joined in on the musical fun, learning Zach Bryan songs to play alongside his son. “One son loves the Pumpkins and… Zuma, he’s got the country bug,” Gavin said. “I have no idea where he gets that from, but he’s got it.”
Clearly, where Zuma’s love for music comes from isn’t just biology—it’s the home he grew up in, the family around him, and the stages he’s already started to own.
Seventeen looks great on Zuma Rossdale. And judging by these birthday snapshots, cowboy boots, plaid shirts, and a little bit of that Blake Shelton magic are just the beginning.
