CBS has announced a new music competition series titled “The Road,” set to premiere in fall 2025. The show will be headlined by four-time Grammy Award winner Keith Urban, with country music star Blake Shelton and acclaimed filmmaker Taylor Sheridan serving as executive producers.
Concept and Format
“The Road” aims to provide a raw and authentic glimpse into the life of touring musicians. The series will follow Keith Urban as he embarks on a cross-country tour, performing at various music venues across America. Emerging artists will have the opportunity to open for Urban at each location, with the audience playing a pivotal role in deciding which musicians continue on the tour. This format offers viewers an insider’s perspective into the challenges and realities of life on the road for aspiring artists.
Urban expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I love the idea of throwing artists into a real-world environment to find out if they are artists.” He emphasized the importance of touring in an artist’s development, highlighting lessons in setlist arrangement, crowd interaction, and performance dynamics.
Production and Schedule
The series is co-produced by Blake Shelton, Taylor Sheridan, Lee Metzger, and David Glasser. The production schedule includes performances in Texas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee, with the following dates and venues:
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Sunday, March 2: Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall in Fort Worth, Texas
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Wednesday, March 5: The Factory in Deep Ellum in Dallas, Texas
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Sunday, March 9: Oklahoma Ranch in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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Wednesday, March 12: Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, Oklaho
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Monday, March 24: Minglewood Hall in Memphis, Tennessee
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Friday, March 28: Marathon Music Works in Nashville, Tennessee
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Wednesday, April 2: Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee
Tickets for these performances are free and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Fans can reserve their tickets through the official CBS website.
Background and Significance
“The Road” represents a significant collaboration between industry veterans. Blake Shelton brings extensive experience from his tenure on “The Voice,” where he mentored numerous artists. Taylor Sheridan, known for creating “Yellowstone,” adds a storytelling depth to the project, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the touring experience. Lee Metzger and David Glasser’s involvement further enriches the series, combining their expertise in production and content creation.
The series distinguishes itself by moving away from traditional studio settings, opting instead for real-world venues that mirror the true essence of a touring musician’s life. This approach aligns with Urban’s philosophy that touring is where “the rubber meets the road” for performers.
Anticipation and Expectations
The announcement of “The Road” has generated considerable excitement among fans and industry professionals alike. The show’s unique format, combining live performances with audience participation, offers a fresh perspective on music competitions. By focusing on the journey of emerging artists alongside an established superstar, the series aims to highlight the dedication, resilience, and passion required to succeed in the music industry.
As the premiere date approaches, viewers can look forward to a series that not only entertains but also provides an authentic portrayal of the highs and lows of a musician’s life on tour. “The Road” promises to be a compelling addition to CBS’s programming, offering insights into the making of music legends and the discovery of new talent.
