Blake Shelton is making his long-awaited return to country music with ‘For Recreational Use Only,' his first studio album in nearly four years and his debut release with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Set for release on May 9, the album is available now for pre-order.
Leading the way is the hit single ‘Texas,' which has already climbed into the top 10 on country radio. People magazine praised the track as “rollicking,” and fans have embraced its infectious energy. Shelton expressed his gratitude for the project, saying, “It’s been a long time since we had a new album out, and I want to thank the songwriters and musicians who helped bring this record to life. Scott (Hendricks) and I have been working on this music for years, and I’m beyond excited to finally share it with the fans.”
Another standout from the album, ‘Let Him In Anyway,' is available now. The emotional ballad tells the story of a man seeking divine forgiveness for a lost friend. “It’s one of the most powerful songs I’ve ever had the chance to record,” Shelton shared. “Hardy is a co-writer and a friend, and I’ve never heard a song like this before. When I first listened to it, I knew it was something special. It’s an honour to bring it to life.”
Spanning 12 tracks, ‘For Recreational Use Only' blends Shelton’s signature storytelling with raw emotion and unforgettable melodies. The album features special guest appearances from Gwen Stefani, country legend John Anderson, and longtime friend Craig Morgan.
For Recreational Use Only Tracklist:
1. Stay Country or Die Tryin’ – (Drew Parker, Graham Barham, Sam Ellis, Beau Bailey)
2. Texas – (Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock, Josh Dorr, Lalo Guzman)
3. Hangin’ On (feat. Gwen Stefani) – (Sam Ellis, Charles Kelley, Greylan James)
4. Strangers – (Michael Hardy, Zach Crowell, Jameson Rodgers)
5. Let Him In Anyway – (Michael Hardy, Zach Abend, Kyle Clark, Carson Wallace)
6. Heaven Sweet Home (feat. Craig Morgan) – (Chris Tompkins, Sarah Buxton, Jake Rose)
7. Life’s Been Comin’ Too Fast – (Craig Wiseman, David Lee Murphy, Lindsay Rimes)
8. Don’t Mississippi – (Shane McAnally, Ross Copperman, Ben Hayslip, Josh Osborne)
9. All of My Love – (Colton Swon, Zach Swon)
10. Cold Can – (Bobby Pinson, Josh Osborne, Andrew DeRoberts)
11. The Keys – (Jay Brunswick, Brock Berryhill, Bobby Pinson)
12. Years (feat. John Anderson) – (Pat McLaughlin, John Anderson, David Ferguson, Daniel Auerbach)
Currently, Shelton is on the road with his sold-out Friends & Heroes Tour, bringing together an all-star lineup that includes Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins, and Emily Ann Roberts. The tour is a celebration of country music’s past, present, and future, uniting legendary voices with rising stars for an unforgettable concert experience.
With ‘For Recreational Use Only,' Blake Shelton reaffirms his place as one of country music’s most compelling voices, delivering an album that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
