Album Review – Blake Shelton’s “Texoma Shore”
As impartial as any one individual may attempt to be, history and human nature means there’s always implicit biases lingering under the surface. The true key to being impartial is not to try and bury the biases you may have and will never vanquish, but to call them out in the open and admit to them, and then attempt to counter-balance them against what your heart and mind are telling you.
As the origination point of the now notorious “Old Farts and Jackasses” quote—which set hard and fast dividing lines between the classic and modern, and the mainstream and independent in country music—the Blake Shelton name will always run afoul of many, and carry at least some baggage for others, making whatever Shelton does hard to find favor with, even if it’s decent, or better than what the rest of the mainstream is releasing.
Blake Shelton’s latest record Texoma Shore is not really that great, and it would be a stretch to even call it good. It’s adult contemporary more than anything, and only country in certain texturing and approach. Yet as enjoyable as it might be to trash this effort for all the ills Mr. “Old Farts and Jackasses” has sowed for traditional country fans over the years, the truth is this might be Blake Shelton’s best album since he uttered those now notorious words in 2013.
As strange as it may be to say, Blake Shelton found a simple groove and regained a little bit of the voice that marked his success earlier in his career with Texoma Shore. Hell I’m partly mad he had to use the portmanteau combining Texas and Oklahoma in the title, forever dooming the likelihood it will be used in place of the unwieldy Texas Music/Red Dirt distinction as once suggested. But Blake Shelton is from the area, so he has as much of a claim on it as anyone.
Texoma Shore is still saddled with a safe and pallid approach in the production that will leave the more active ear of true country music fans feeling unfulfilled. But who wouldn’t take Scott Hendricks—who started his career producing records for Alan Jackson—over “busbee,” Shane McAnally, or whoever else is mainstream country’s pop flavor of the month as producer?
Traditional country fans will never give this record a chance, and they probably shouldn’t. It’s not in their wheelhouse. But compared to its contemporaries, Texoma Shore scores well on multiple gradients. For example, while the 40-something Luke Bryan, and the now 50-something Keith Urban are out there singing songs more appropriate for 23-year-olds, Blake Shelton has done what any good performer should do, which is to grow old with their music. This keeps the themes relevant to the audience, and more believable to the ear.
At least Blake is acting his age. And even though he only co-wrote one song on this entire record, Texoma Shore actually feels really personal to Shelton, like these songs were written for him so he can deliver them with more conviction, as opposed to just singing them because he knows they’ll be radio hits.
That’s the thing about Blake Shelton, and the strange course his career has taken. He gets scant consideration for the industry awards these days. He’s only got the time for about a dozen or so tour dates a year. Radio still loves him I guess, but it’s not because he’s pandering to what they want. Blake Shelton is still relevant because he’s built his franchise around his position on The Voice, and it’s worked much better for him than some of his contemporaries who must spend months on the road. Why do you think Keith Urban, and now Luke Bryan decided to get into the American Idol game?
It’s Blake Shelton’s folksy, middle-aged sexpot persona that has built him a solid fan base without a lot of fanfare, and without the need to pander or chase trends. And it’s that slightly older crowd where he’s built the appeal for his music. Texoma Shore suits the same people who watch The Voice, which is 40-somethings, like Shelton. It’s divorcee country. Piggy backing off his high-profile relationship with that girl from No Doubt, Shelton sells some of the better cuts from this record like “Why Me” and “The Wave” with passion, while the first song and single “I’ll Name The Dogs,” and the last song “I Lived It” show off his aw shucks country side that makes him endearing to many. The melody of “Got The T-Shirt” is devilishly good.
As so many of country’s male superstars refuse to grow up, Blake Shelton is singing songs about settling down, rekindling dying flames, re-evaluating the important things in life and reminiscing, which are the things that most adults actually do, and is certainly more healthy than perpetually reliving your early 20’s. And he’s doing it while mostly avoiding electronic drums, and allowing the steel guitar to come through the mix in moments.
There are exceptions to all this praise however, and one very big one in the song “Money.” It’s one of those songs that so bad, it saddles this entire project, and will go on to help define one of the worst atrocities of Shelton’s entire career with its stupid monotone talk singing and misogynistic lyrics. You could say it’s right up there with “Boys ‘Round Here” as Shelton’s worst song ever, but ironically, “Money” sounds like a ripoff of Shelton’s first dalliance with country rap way back in 2013, so you can’t even give it credit for boldness or originality. Rest assured, if “Money” is ever released as a single (or maybe even if it isn’t), it will get it’s proper rebuke. But for now, it can be written off as a misstep, and separated from consideration from the rest of the album’s material, like those really terrible lead singles from Tim McGraw a few years ago like “Truck Yeah.”
Blake Shelton’s Texoma Shore does not come recommended by Saving Country Music. Shelton and crew still leave much to be desired, and still give ample reason for the sheer sound of his name to anger the blood. But if you put all of your predisposed dispositions aside (as well as the song “Money”), and be honest with yourself, it’s pretty clear that Blake Shelton is not part of the big problem with country music today. He may not be part of the solution, but if most any given song from Texoma Shore comes on the radio when you’re driving with your in-laws to Chili’s, or forced to sit in a cubicle next to a pop country fan, it won’t give you a reason to wince. At least it won’t if you’re being honest with yourself and reacting to the song, and not the name. And that’s an improvement for Shelton, and for country music in general, that is only fair to recognize.
November 7, 2017 @ 9:18 am
I’m got going to listen to any of his music, but I’m assuming the use of ‘Texoma’ in Texoma Shore is a reference to Lake Texoma, not necessarily the region?
November 7, 2017 @ 9:20 am
Yes, it’s a reference to Lake Texoma straddling the border, and a place Blake’s got a lakehouse.
November 7, 2017 @ 9:41 am
I still think every single he has released in the last decade kind of sound the same. I know we rip on acts for branching out and trying new things even if it fails, like The Outsiders or Platinum, but at least Eric and Miranda albums have their own district sound. I don’t know I listened to a few songs and it still sounds like Blake. It’s cookie-cutter and I still think he’s overrated even when he isn’t up for awards.
But what’s the saying again? If it’s not broke, don’t fix it. I guess he lives by that.
November 8, 2017 @ 8:26 am
See, that’s where I would disagree. He has so many influences in his music including R/B, soft rock, southern country, etc. I absolutely love that about him and I love this record. It is so easy to listen to. Easy. That’s Blake’s smooth and sexy vocals. And to me, he tells the story like no other. He won the People’s Choice for favorite album last year. The first time EVER a country album took that title. He is my go to for sure. Glad I don’t take all of these “reviews” to heart. No matter how hard a person might try, there is NEVER an opinion that isn’t biased somehow. LOVE this entire album. AND “Money” is a fun song to dance through the house to 🙂
November 8, 2017 @ 2:57 pm
Many artists could win a People’s Choice award if they were on national tv twice a week and in the tabs practically daily..It’s all about familiarity…
November 7, 2017 @ 9:56 am
I came late to Country Music. I became interested in it because of Shelton. And yes because of the Voice. When he mentioned a particular artist, past or present, I would seek him or her out. In all honesty when he made that comment about “old farts” I thought he was referring to, well, people like you. Not older artists who I think we know he reveres. We all know what he meant Trigger. However, old fart that you are I think you are one of the best country music journalist out there. I went back and have read many of your pieces and learned quite a bit. I loved this album (with exception of Money which is not that bad) for the very reasons you wrote about. He has one of the best voices around. I loved the throwback sound on this album. The Wave. T-shirt. Why Me. Turning Me On. I have had on repeat. I can’t agree with you more about older male artists singing songs geared at the Sam Hunt fan base. As a fan you want to be able to relate to the artists you like. Shelton is only 41 but he’s not trying to be anyone other than who he is. No he’s not Sam Hunt or Thomas Rhett. Thank goodness. But he does promote country artists young and old. He always will. Oh just one more thing. That “girl” is Gwen Stefani. She has a name. She is loved and revered by many of us who know what she accomplished in her genre. She is an acclaimed songwriter and artist. And had sold over 30 million records. But more than that she is loving mother and partner who has brought Shelton peace. Just saying. Thank you for letting a new country fan her thoughts. Keep writing. I would love to see your articles in other publications.
November 7, 2017 @ 3:29 pm
Money is my favorite track on the whole damn album! I’d love to see Trigger articles in other publications as well, and that’s not just the Famous Grouse 40 year old talking either. I’d like to you to The Ocean Course in my Stuart Hughes History Supreme, to meet with some media moguls. Keep writing the good stuff, Trigger! You’re in good company and it’s truly a movement of what was once thought to be unmeasurable proportions, how YouTube and country music affect political leanings, but undeniably here it is in black and white all the facts! Exciting stuff! https://medium.com/swlh/mapping-country-musics-politics-8270b19b63cc
November 7, 2017 @ 10:02 am
More like Texoma Snore, right?
November 7, 2017 @ 10:06 am
One reason I will always respect Blake Shelton over his peers is that he hasn’t given in and worn skinny jeans and deep v-necks.
November 7, 2017 @ 11:50 am
Totally agree with you. He could extend his career and his fan base if he dyed his hair and wore the t-shirts and skinny jeans. Some part of him must be authentic because he won’t give in to that crap. Also, this guy always said his dream was to be a country singer. Not a songwriter or guitar player, though he’s done that pretty well here and there. I like other artists much better but Blake is definitely just a hayseed with a dream. And he can sing unlike so many others getting radio play today. He’s the easy listening of country music to me. I like this album with the exception of Money. I don’t love it but I like it.
November 7, 2017 @ 11:20 am
Well, I must say that this album is a pleasant surprise, as I have come to expect the worst from Shelton.
Is there a review coming for Margo Price’s “All American Made,” or did I miss it?
November 7, 2017 @ 11:41 am
Jesus Christ! Whoever wrote this is a bitter, hateful jerk. Tell us how you really feel about Blake! ????. You are still harping on something he said back in 2013, which he apologized for, but you continue to kiss his ex-wife’s ass, who by the way was a serial cheater, because you prefer her style of music. Stay classy “Saving Country Music” ????
November 7, 2017 @ 12:05 pm
his ex-wife’s ass, who by the way was a serial cheater…
Can you back this claim up or are we making speculations?
November 7, 2017 @ 12:11 pm
Are you serious? Nothing “bitter and hateful” about this article at all. It’s not a glowing review but it’s not scathing either. All Trigger said was that there are many who continue to hold the “old farts” comment against him and won’t give any new music of his a chance no matter how good it may be. I think he was very fair in his review. Just because he isn’t kissing Blake’s ass doesn’t make his review “bitter and hateful.” Try actually reading the whole article next time.
November 7, 2017 @ 12:14 pm
Hey Ann, this is not facebook or taste of country. Probably you read this review by mistake.
November 7, 2017 @ 12:36 pm
I’m guessing this is Blake (aka Ann). I’m guessing you clicked on the wrong website review! And by the way, Dale Watson is 900000 times cooler than you will ever be, no matter who you are married to, or what terrible TV show you are on you just can’t buy cool! New Country Turd!!
November 7, 2017 @ 2:05 pm
Except for when Miranda copies dad of the moment East Nashville sound?
November 7, 2017 @ 12:50 pm
Boy Annie, you’d really be pissed if I’d have written this article.
This is one of the sweetest, gentlest articles Trigger has ever written about Fake Shelton.
November 7, 2017 @ 10:08 pm
You sound more bitter than he ever did. You sound like that bitter soccer mom who throws a hissy fit to beg for attention.
November 8, 2017 @ 5:33 pm
all I vasn say is that 6 years ago blake Shelton insulteed country music past and tried to make himself country music future and country music past is betterer than futtrur and this old fart likes his grandpas music and hopefully my grandson will like my grandpas mususuc too yes im bitter becase when I was a kid music was good clean and inspiring and today it sounds like one trck carrying tin cans ran into another truck carrying tayler swift its all repeetetetetive and repretettive ver and over again and I dont like his wife either shes always angry and selfrightes while bke comes across as superficial
November 7, 2017 @ 11:42 am
Still sounds like R&B “country”…
I just dislike these half-talking verse lines that go on forever and don’t say anything. And the “mix” drowning out the sound of any specific instrument. And the lack of emotion resulting from the whole production.
And BS ain’t the only one doing it…
November 7, 2017 @ 11:44 am
Will no longer give this pop/Hollywood sell out the time of day.
November 7, 2017 @ 5:09 pm
Hi. Cindy. Did you get tired of stalking Shelton on twitter? My, my you show up every where. I’m new to this and already recognize you.
November 7, 2017 @ 11:54 am
Hey Trigger are you going to write an article about Disney and the boycott? Would love to hear your opinion.
November 7, 2017 @ 3:09 pm
I probably won’t write a detailed article about it, but I do have an article delving deeper into the way the press covers entertainment post the Kirt Webster demise that may touch on it.
November 7, 2017 @ 9:51 pm
Cool. Can’t wait to read it.
November 7, 2017 @ 12:11 pm
If there is one thing I wish it’s that Warner let him develop as artist back in the day instead of treating him like a hit machine. He’s shown he can write good songs, Over You, Saviour’s Shadow, Turning Me On. I really enjoy the latter. Gives me an Eagles, Fleetwood Mac vibe.
Some really good songs on the album like I Lived It and the the atrocious Money which unsurprisingly is streaming very well on Spotify. I’m surprised.
November 8, 2017 @ 8:20 am
“If there is one thing I wish it’s that Warner let him develop as artist back in the day instead of treating him like a hit machine. ”
Dead on CC …..THIS is the biggest problem with music row….they seem to frown on talent , vision and originality ….EVERYTHING has to be watered down , marketable and pop oriented in theme , groove , phrasing and sex appeal .
November 7, 2017 @ 12:18 pm
I don’t care about anything this fraud puts out. When he made those comments 4 years ago I was 22 years old and supposedly one of those “old farts” complaining about pop country. But then I”m sure Blake didn’t think there were any young people who actually gave a shit about real music.
November 9, 2017 @ 1:41 am
Wow, but you care to read this very long review all about Blake Shelton and then spend time reading comments then write comments. Lmao!! Dont
you have better stuff to do?
November 7, 2017 @ 12:26 pm
Look, I like Blake. Warner sent him in a certain direction that I didn’t love but he always pulls back. I like the songs he writes and not so much a few bro country cuts he’s made. Like the other person said, if he dyed his hair and wore the tight jeans and V neck t’s then I would call him a sell out. I think its safer to say he loves music and he wants his music heard. I like what he’s doing in his hometown area to help out the economy and every person who meets or interviews him says he’s genuine and a great guy. He also knows his country music. He knew he was never going to be a country legend so he went with songs that showcase his voice. The old farts thing was taken out of context and everyone knows that its just a convenient way for haters to hate. And it’s wasting time to hate on this guy. His latest songs are fine. Some are even good. Money sucks but he had to throw a bone to THAT fan base. And really, I like this album better than his ex’s last which was a snooze fest.
Last, anyone that knocks Gwen Stefani either doesn’t know her discography or is just a fan of his ex who is still bitter. Like her music or not she’s a very talented songwriter and a creative force. She has turned against what’s popular at every point in her career. Maybe she’s the one who convinced him to sacrifice sales (because you know this album won’t sell as well as the last ones with more radio appeal) for artistic integrity.
November 8, 2017 @ 10:38 am
I love Blake he is my second cousin on my moms side. My uncle being Marcus Jenkins was his grandfather. PEOPLE are just jealous of his fame.
Thanks for the support of giving him a chance
November 8, 2017 @ 12:24 pm
Gwen can’t sing and never could. It doesn’t matter how many records her band sold. She has been a lost cause as a solo artist. That’s not mean, it’s the truth….She has a genius for self promotion and Blake may be her biggest marketing success. The line about ‘Revlon red’ in one of the songs was vomit inducing.
Maybe she mentions ‘vodka’ on her horrible album…These two are made for each other. If you see them in the tabloids, they’re selling something, count on it..
Blake’s time in the sunshine will be over when the Voice is over..I look forward to seeing him at county fairs in the futue….
p.s. Delisa,,why in the world would anyone be jealous of Blake? Tied to a menopausal plastic hag with lots of baggage, who needs a glam squad to prepare her for a trip to the market..
November 7, 2017 @ 12:28 pm
I surprisingly enjoyed this album and agree with Trigger’s review. I gave Texoma Shore a listen because last Friday seemed to be light on what I would call “quality new releases,” so I thought I would check it out. I actually found it refreshing that Shelton was singing age-appropriate material, and I think he did a good job picking his songs for the album. There is nothing revolutionary here, but for the most part (other than “Money”) it was inoffensive. I see it as a good compromise between my friends that prefer commercial country and myself, a SCM devotee.
Also, I do have to note… Gwen Stefani deserves more than to be labeled as “That Girl From No Doubt.” First of all, she is a woman in her 40s. She has won three Grammy awards. This site has extolled the importance of more women to be respected in country music. Just because she is in a different genre doesn’t mean she doesn’t deserve respect. I think we would be in arms if in the text of a Jason Isbell review Amanda Shires was referred to as “that fiddle player.”
November 7, 2017 @ 1:09 pm
Look, Gwen Stefani broke my heart in the late 90’s when I was a 3rd generation ska fan and she took her brother’s 2nd generation ska band and made them pop. And then she goes and starts dating what at one point was my country music mortal enemy. Calling her “that girl from No Doubt” is a running joke that may have lost its luster (if it ever had any) a while ago, but if I’m going to be forced to bite down and swallow hard on posting a positive review for Blake Shelton, I’ll be damned if I will relinquish may right to engage in obvious playful snark to troll someone’s fan base. Clearly it’s sarcasm, and if people can’t balance that out between my record on fighting for women in music, then I’m not sure I really even care. She will always be the girl from No Doubt because that’s when I loved her (not to be creepy). Have no idea what she did afterwards, and don’t really care to learn.
November 7, 2017 @ 1:45 pm
Your running joke is sexist and not funny. Fighting for women to be played on the radio means jack shit when you still diminish women. Goes back to your days of wanting Carrie to shut up and look pretty. I thought you’ve grown up a bit since then.
November 7, 2017 @ 3:12 pm
There’s nothing sexist about that joke. I will never give up on the freedom to use sarcasm when and where I want, regardless of how politicized society becomes.
November 7, 2017 @ 5:19 pm
Trigger, Sweetie, this is old fartiness. I’m sorry Gwen broke your heart. It looks like some of us aren’t in on your joke. How about that girl that broke my heart in the future. Just a suggestion. Now you go on with your surly self.
November 7, 2017 @ 7:11 pm
You don’t think there is anything wrong with diminishing female artists to being some girl or telling them to shut up and look pretty? I don’t think you’re good at sarcasm but sexism you’re an ace at.
November 7, 2017 @ 8:39 pm
CountryCharm,
I have written over 4,300 articles on this website, and regularly engage in humor and sarcasm. Of course you can comb through and pull quotes that make me look like a raging sexist ass. You can also pull way more quotes, and point to actions that tell a different story, but you’re conveniently glossing over that fact. I never said I didn’t think there was anything wrong with “diminishing females.”
You want a quote from me, here you go:
“I, Triggerman of SavingCountryMusic.com, hate all women, think they are an inferior sex, should be banned from voting or working, and should be subjugated to all males in accordance with Old Testament law.”
There you go. Now go and share that via social media far and wide and see if I care. The people that hate me think I’m a misogynist already anyway, so it’s no skin off my back.
The problem with sarcasm is not everybody gets it.
November 8, 2017 @ 8:28 am
”“I, Triggerman of SavingCountryMusic.com, hate all women, think they are an inferior sex, should be banned from voting or working, and should be subjugated to all males in accordance with Old Testament law.” ”
what ..? you don’t think they should be barefoot and pregnant and barred from country music charts ..? ..and why are they still driving …? everyone knows women can’t drive …sheesh, man
c’mon ….either your sexist or your not Trigger …..don’t be on the fence about it !
November 8, 2017 @ 8:30 am
and BTW …..THAT was sarcasm ….
November 8, 2017 @ 10:33 am
People wouldn’t think you were a misogynist if you didn’t make sexist comments. Doubling down on your right to male sexist jokes isn’t helping the situation either.
You dont have to live up to people’s lowest expectations of you. You can change and treat people fairly.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:07 pm
Nope, you’re still a sexist prick.
November 7, 2017 @ 9:13 pm
Well, the snowflake liberals are easy to spot on this thread…
November 7, 2017 @ 2:11 pm
I understand where you are coming from, and I figured that it was a joke, but maybe an ill-placed one. I am a Gwen Stefani fan way before I will ever claim to be a Blake Shelton fan. I can’t tell you what to write. However, I do encourage you to care. I am someone who did not know jack squat about country music until I discovered your site two years ago. You are the country music journalist I hold in highest esteem, believe it or not. I’ve learned a lot about country music fans from this site, and I have learned to adjust the way I approach conversation with them in order to be taken seriously or be heard (my handle is a nickname that my boyfriend has called me for years because I am so “city”). If you want to be snarky in a Blake Shelton review, fine… he probably deserves it. Just make it about Shelton and not the person he is dating.
I will continue to read this site and value your opinion. Just know how this came across and take that for what you want. And no, I didn’t think of you as creepy there.
As a gesture of goodwill, I will laugh at myself and say that I am a 35 year old female divorcee… I may even listen to this album in the bathtub, in honor of your jokes Shelton’s target audience. 😉
November 7, 2017 @ 2:12 pm
By “lost its luster”, do you mean to say that the joke has been exposed for its misogynistic undertone? Because I think that’s what happened, and you’re bristling because you don’t like being called out on it. Oh, and it’s “Gwen Stefani from No Doubt.” For someone who admits that he loved her, you seem to be having an awfully hard time remembering her name.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:41 pm
Your so triggered by that Gwen Stefani comment.
November 8, 2017 @ 5:36 pm
ohmygosh if she was in no doubt then shes the girl from no doubt just the way I am the guy who used to work at the plant because I worked at te plant thats how enenglish works nd who cares what she was from if she dates blake Shelton she is probably also “from” a logngng line of womene who mak pore derisions
November 9, 2017 @ 8:29 am
He’s just jealous, angry and bitter.
November 9, 2017 @ 8:44 am
Trigger, You just identified the problem, when Gwen took ND to pop, she wrecked everything.
Ska makes it easy to be a song ‘stylist’, not necessarily a singer.
Pop requires at least a modicum of vocal ability, heavy use of autotune can’t replace an actual voice. No one ever told her that, and her dismal solo career proves that listeners are not always that easy to fool.. Style over substance, seems to have paid well, so give her that.
Aside from that, as a born and bred NY’er who worked in the biz, ska was a Cali thing, not so much on the East coast, although ND may have had some fans, there was no big impact.
Sad that you had your heart broken, but that was the fault of the ND band and management, who should have known better, you seem to have recovered nicely, so win/win…
…
November 11, 2017 @ 3:33 pm
Sophie you are a bitter and angry ran fan aren’t you? Your girl dumped Blake to be part of the Nashville hipster cool crowd . And to cheat. Gwen is an international music icon. You can’t even compare the two.
February 9, 2019 @ 4:05 am
Trigger time you looked closers. If it wasn’t for Gwen, No Doubt would only be known in cali. and wouldn’t have a record contract. The first two albums her Brother wrote tanked. they sold less than 10k. Tragic Kingdom, which she wrote, made them a Diamond Certified Band. With 16 million in sales. Ska, Like Grunge. By the mid 90s was Dieing. Bush still a Band btw has struggled to hit the top 200. Same with Dreamcar, Gwen Bandmate’s new band. Sadly spice Girls, pussycat Doll,(which Gwen helped promote) and Boy Band like New Kids on the block and Nsync were taking over. but to be fair 86 was Bubble Gum pop became a thing. FYI popularity of music is run by 16 yr old girls. Not men in their mid 20s and 30s..Gwen grewup on Yacht rock. Eagles, Bob Seger etc, and emmylou Harris. She was introd to Ska by her Brother, Eric. WHO BTW became a Simpson Cartoon animator because ND first two albums (he wrote)tanked. Do some research Neo punk\Grunge and Ska died about 96-8
November 7, 2017 @ 12:36 pm
Another day, another man using demeaning language to belittle a woman. “That girl from No Doubt”? Use her name. She is Gwen Stefani, and she’s a Grammy-winning artist with a diamond-certified album.
November 7, 2017 @ 12:52 pm
????
November 7, 2017 @ 1:36 pm
Calm down.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:40 pm
Wow that is so demeaning i cant take it.. grow up a bit.. yes maybe its a bad joke but its not like he is actively belittling her.. just a side bar comment in a country music review.
November 7, 2017 @ 8:23 pm
The Baha Men and Elmo have won Grammy awards, so it really doesn’t mean dick. Its kind of like Yasser Arafat or Nelson Mandela winning Nobel Peace prizes.
November 8, 2017 @ 5:37 pm
and she was also in noi doubt therefore there can be no doubt that she is that girl from no sdoubt
November 7, 2017 @ 12:42 pm
I love Blake but did not like this music. He sounds and acts like a lovesick high schooler. To much mention of Gwen in him talking of this album. We have been hearing about all these songs. I don’t feel he was touching on memories of this place. A one week romp there. Disappointed in it. Not buying it, Hope he gets his self back on good ole country music. Sorry Blake .
November 7, 2017 @ 12:54 pm
I will add to the choir that diminishing Gwen Stefani as the girl from No Doubt is pretty sexist. I looked up her album sales and she outsold Miley, Kelly Clarkson, Demi. That’s 30 years into her career. Women in pop and country would kill to have her career longevity. Men would. Show a little respect.
November 7, 2017 @ 10:17 pm
“Wahhh, you’re such a sexist pig, you didn’t mention her name…” Ever thought that him calling her that had absolutely nothing to do with her being a female performer? Jesus Christ.
That girl from No Doubt. Sue me.
November 8, 2017 @ 11:09 am
CountryCharm, what he said was not sexist by any stretch of the imagination. It seems a lot of people are trying to make it that way just to look for something to whine about. Have you considered maybe he’s just calling her that because he doesn’t really see her as anything spectacular? I think he referred to her as that in the same way I would refer to Billy Corgan as “That guy from Smashing Pumpkins.” I don’t hate him or deny the impact he and the band have made in the music industry, but he’s just not that impressive to me. It’s called having an opinion. It has nothing to do with her gender. It’s her musicianship. And some people love her, and that’s okay. But don’t go throwing names around and using the sexist card just because he subtly made his opinion known. Way to make a mountain out of a molehill.
November 9, 2017 @ 8:50 am
Some here have forgotten or are too young to recall ‘record clubs’ where two for one deals were quite common…They had a big following and many artists ‘sold’ lots more albums that way..
November 7, 2017 @ 12:58 pm
I’ve heard a lot better music but I’ve also heard a whole lot worse. That’s about all I can say about “Got the T-Shirt”. But I do want to make a comment about Trigger. I stumbled onto this website a year or so ago and I’ve come to have much respect for Trig and his op-ed pieces. In these crazy times when so many people have the “you either agree with me or you’re a piece of shit” attitude it is refreshing to read articles written with a totally truthful and unbiased slant. Objectivity seems to have fallen by the wayside with so many members of media, whether mainstream or independent, and we aren’t better off for that occurring. So I’m giving Trigger a thank you and a tip of my hat. Keep up the good work sir. Some of us really appreciate it.
November 7, 2017 @ 1:11 pm
Thanks Dan.
November 7, 2017 @ 1:07 pm
I for one like Blake’s Texoma Shore. I love how all of his songs are so visual, love his voice, his music, and his personality-plus. And yes, I even like “Money”. I think it’s quirky and fun, a little bit of a break from the other songs. Texoma Shore must be liked by someone, it’s #2 on Apple today, so doesn’t sound as bad as the picture you’re trying to paint, or it wouldn’t be there. If people judged it by your review…it wouldn’t even be in the top 20. Just sayin’.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:09 pm
Because a very small minority of music listeners care about reviews. Especially a reviewer like this dude.
November 7, 2017 @ 10:24 pm
Good Lord, one or two negative things about the album and people think he’s bashing it. He’s made negative remarks when reviewing Stapleton and Simpson’s albums too, and he sings their praises. Part of reviewing an album is to point out the good AND bad. I thought his assessment of the album was very fair. If you disagree with his assessment that’s fine because it’s your opinion. But don’t discredit his authenticity as a writer because he voiced his open-minded opinion on it. That sounds completely asinine.
November 8, 2017 @ 11:03 am
And if I’m not mistaken, he gave Chris Stapleton’s album the same rating he gave this one. I don’t really recall an album he gave a perfect 10/10 rating.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:37 pm
This is not a bad review by any stretch of the imagination, chill out.. he pointed out numerous good things. People can’t handle any sort of constructive criticisms these days.. everyone gets so butt hurt.
November 8, 2017 @ 4:59 pm
LOL…I’m a dudette, not a dude!
November 7, 2017 @ 2:01 pm
I like “I’ll Name the Dogs.” It’s just a fun, lightweight country song.
But, “Money” is bad, even by Blake’s standards. If Kane Brown or Florida Georgia Line had cut that song, I probably wouldn’t bat an eye. But hearing something that bad from Blake is surprising.
November 8, 2017 @ 7:30 am
Yeah I enjoy “I’ll Name the Dogs” for the same reason as you.. That type of country song is right in Shelton’s wheelhouse imo.
November 8, 2017 @ 8:35 am
‘ Dogs ” may be the best thing BS has sent to radio in years . I know that isn’t saying alot when it comes to him ….but kudos to the writers for their efforts on this one and the fresh ear-catching take and title. . Yeah ….Joe Nichol could have nailed it …..but BS got to it first and we get to hear it where others just don’t seem to have the clout anymore . ..
November 7, 2017 @ 2:08 pm
I also always thought the old farts and jackasses was taken out of context but still didn’t like Blake’s sentiment that money dictates the direction of country music. He was probably right, but I don’t like it. So it was a slow Friday and I gave his album a listen and much to my surprise I didn’t hate it. Not sure I’d say its great but much closer to great than anything he’s put out in a long time. I have played it a few times more since and its a nice, pleasant album that makes you feel good.
I also agree with whoever said it won’t sell as well as his last one, which I didn’t care for all. And he hasn’t been all over everywhere promoting it like I’m already seeing Luke Bryan do. I think he made a conscious choice to have less of a payday in order to put out a decent album. I applaud him for that. Of course, this album might be the end of his radio play domination. Good songs, but not conducive to the crap on the radio right now.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:11 pm
Money dictates country music awards. But, as long as people you approve of get awarded you’ll convince yourself that there’s validity there. The royal you , btw.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:18 pm
Joe, he HSS been promoting this a album for months. He has been on all the TV talk shows. Morning and night events. Recently playing a new song everyday. Having people ore order this before it came out. Yes he HSS been pushing it. I really like his music. Since he went Hollywood he and his music not the same Blake. Kinda sad. Hope he gets back on track.????
November 11, 2017 @ 3:44 pm
Joe exactly. What Blake said now years ago was taken out of context. He never singled out any country musicians. I think he did mean judgmental and critical fans and critics and some others in the music industry that put him down. Not any other country music artists. I read that article numerous times. He never singled out any musicians. He is very supportive and respectful of other artists. Yea he might have even meant some who post here. He did apologize. .Even though he did nothing wrong.
November 7, 2017 @ 2:26 pm
One thing I definitely picked up listening to this, is that Shelton sounds noticeably more invested and enthusiastic in his vocal contributions than on any studio album since, I’d say, “Startin’ Fires”.
I don’t know if it’s more a reflection of the fact he recorded this record in his home near Lake Texoma or not, but either way it’s been a while since we’ve heard Shelton sound this energized as opposed to just offering a pedestrian recording (“At The House” is a perfect example of this).
As for the songs themselves, they’re hit and miss. “Money” is a train wreck in every sense of the word, but it’s counterbalanced a good deal by “Why Me” and “The Wave” like you cited. Even laundry list country living songs like “I Lived It” sound more believable and impressionable here because the lyrics, to their credit, consist of some solid imagery and Shelton’s vocals have the charisma necessary to flavor them.
Shelton is still capable of much better as he has proven in the past with “Blake Shelton’s Bar & Grill” and “Pure BS”. But this is certainly a stride in the right direction for him after a mostly forgettable blur that was “If I’m Honest”.
November 7, 2017 @ 4:35 pm
Perked up when I saw your comment, Nadia. I’ve been missing your commentary around here.
November 7, 2017 @ 4:44 pm
Awwwwwwwwww, I appreciate the sentiment Warthog! ????
Honestly, I’ve been aiming much of this year to minimize Internet use and focus on nourishing my friendships and social life beyond the net. I’ve long been as intensely a fan of EDM as I am country and jazz music (I know: a beyond grotesque mix indeed! ???? ) and have been raving a lot as of late to keep physically and spiritually vibrant…………..all while still seeing Sturgill Simpson at the Arlene Schnitzer most recently too. ????
I still value this community as much as ever and will keep making cameo appearances at the very least for sure. Thanks again. ????
November 7, 2017 @ 3:34 pm
Didn’t mean to speak to Mary directly. That post was directed right at the Triggerman. Sorry for the intrusion, especially if you were at work.
November 7, 2017 @ 3:36 pm
I see Shefani and Gwen fans have infested the comments. LOL
November 7, 2017 @ 5:21 pm
I’m new to country thanks to Miranda Lambert, her latest album is so good, it made me explore her previous albums too, good vocals! Checked out Blake too but I must say I liked his previous songs better (Austin) listened to the first songs on Texoma shore but lost interest didn’t like that this sounds like RnB, I don’t understand why country artists would destroy the sound of the genre, if I wanted to listen to RnB I know where to look….I think country should be country.
November 7, 2017 @ 5:24 pm
I honestly like this new music from Blake. I really don’t see anything wrong with music that just makes you happy and smile as you listen. His voice is incredible and I think sounds better than it has in years. I’m new to this and have never made comments before but really enjoy reading the write ups. I’m particularly glad you mentioned being age appropriate Blake has never caved to the tight jeans, baseball caps and t-shirts on stage.
November 7, 2017 @ 5:25 pm
Or women.
November 7, 2017 @ 5:44 pm
I don’t know who Gwen Stefani is and at this point i’m afraid to ask.
November 8, 2017 @ 11:56 am
She had a big hit” back in the day that went like this:
[snip]
Few times I’ve been around that track
So it’s not just gonna happen like that
‘Cause I ain’t no hollaback girl
I ain’t no hollaback girl
This my shit, this my shit
This my shit, this my shit
This my shit, this my shit
This my shit, this my shit
[snip]
I kid you not.
November 8, 2017 @ 1:25 pm
Actually Gwen has many hit songs . Dont Speak is just one. Too many for me to even list. Her new Christmas album is great. Actually NBC is giving Gwen her very own Christmas special in December. Check it out. I am sure Blake will be on it.
November 7, 2017 @ 6:52 pm
I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with drinking on the job, trigman. Just don’t waste our time. Come over any time you feel like you’re suffering the grind.
November 7, 2017 @ 6:55 pm
This album is a MILLION times better than the last one! Sure its not as good as my heroes Strait, Jackson, Cash, Jones, Haggard, Church, or Nichols to name a few, but this is a major step in the right direction for Blake. If this album does well commercially it allows for maybe the next to be better and that would be a good thing for country music.
November 7, 2017 @ 7:34 pm
Sorry Trigger, but I’ve got to disagree with you on this one. It may be slightly better than his last two albums, but for me, something like that just doesn’t cut it. Not when his first four, even five, albums prove he’s capable of so much more. Simply “not being part of the problem” doesn’t cut mustard. Shelton knows he’s capable of more, but he’s an egomaniac who can’t abide the idea of not having constant airplay. If he goes back and releases another album that’s on par with “Pure B.S.,” I’ll be willing to give him the time of day again.
“Texoma Shore” is at best middling. Which would be fine of middling were all he was capable of. It would be fine to be s hair above the alternatives. But like a student capable of A’s and B’s, C’s and D’s aren’t acceptable.
November 7, 2017 @ 8:28 pm
Doesn’t sound like our opinions are too far off actually.
November 7, 2017 @ 8:38 pm
I agree with Country Charm’s approach to the ladies. I would never sit there and tell them to shut up. I love to hear their beautiful voices. I would take them out to dinner, ladies are hungry, they could order whatever they wanted. I’d buy them their favorite dresses to wear and my favorite stores. I’d find out what they are into, and buy them a plane. I would make sure they were pretty by forcing them to take one of those toenail painting appointments, and force them to soak in a spa, get their hair done, no arguments. And give them a chest of jewels to put in the safe of my log cabin mansion. I’d get them baby lion cubs to keep them company. Poor things, have to put up with so much from us. Ladies are love and they get mine back deeper than the ocean and higher than the matterhorn. I bend the knee always for the love of my queens.
November 7, 2017 @ 9:30 pm
I saw his cardboard cutout all over at RiteAid last time I was there. Hawking tampons, adult diapers, or something – who knows. Congratulations on making some more money dude…hopefully you’ll have enough soon…
November 7, 2017 @ 9:50 pm
The ONLY explanation for this review is Warner must have given ya $! Has the country album bar been so far pushed down that this is his best effort? Really? The same generic song he has released over and over. The same shtick, awe shucks “character ” is tired some. Radio has played him from the beginning when he didn’t sell, so now that he has clout/$ why doesn’t he branch out and make a country record? He talks on the tv show all the time about highlighting real country but I guess that is all talk. Bare minimum effort artists are so infuriating!
November 8, 2017 @ 12:00 pm
But, but … he’s standing there on the album cover by a fishing hole, chest puffed out, looking up at the sun, in a flannel shirt, looking like Henry VIII in the middle of a set for “Green Acres.” And you call that “minimum effort”?
November 7, 2017 @ 10:02 pm
I just have no interest in buying into someone associated with this show.
It’s way too much pop culture and faux drama for me.
With rare exceptions, I almost never listen to big label current country artists.
November 8, 2017 @ 5:14 am
The reason I listen to country music now is because of Blake Shelton. Blake has literally brought in thousands of new fans to even listen to country music due to his popularity on the voice and his amazing vocal talents. Blake is the best male singer in country music today. For those reasons alone he deserves respect by country fans. The new album is amazing. Best yet. I love Turnin Me On Why me and I Lived It. By the way Gwen Stefani s new Christmas album is great too. Listen to it. I just have to add that I am disgusted by the way some in country music and some fans promote Blake’s ex Miranda L. by putting Blake and Gwen down. Her fans are the absolute worst on social media. Miranda is the most overrated female country singer and songwriter ever and her new album was a huge bore. Snooze Fest. And yes Miranda did cheat on Blake and wanted out of the marriage yet for some crazy reason some blame him. I guess some women feel better blaming the guy. Isnt that called blaming the victim ? Chris or Jason deserve CMA album of the year but Miranda probably gets it and a possible Grammy nod cause she is a female they feel sorry for her. Not because she deserves it.
I would love to see you write about that. Very interesting review but I give the album a solid 10 out of 10. It’s that good.
November 8, 2017 @ 3:34 pm
Dear New Country fan, please go back to whatever music you liked before…
Thank you.
November 8, 2017 @ 8:42 am
”The reason I listen to country music now is because of Blake Shelton. ”
And once again ..HERE is the real problem . What you are listening to NCMF is NOT by any definition or stretch of the imagination “COUNTRY” music . I repeat ….THIS IS NOT COUNTRY MUSIC radio is playing . This is bad pop music looking for someone to have mercy on it and country radio has become that someone . If you are a fan of this style of music , fine . But please do not confuse this with REAL country music just because radio and mainstream pop culture wants to call it that . If they called it jazz , you would then be saying ” I’m a fan of jazz music ” and embarrassing yourself . If you haven’t thus far , please do some research on guys like Haggard , George Strait , Hank Williams , Jones and get back to us .
November 8, 2017 @ 10:53 am
Actually albert I am a big fan of Johnny Cash and some Willie too. Not big fans of the ones you listed. Love Eddy Arnold. Make the world go away. I think I am like so many people now. I like all types of music. I like the contemporary country music. No , I dont like all country music just like I dont like all jazz or pop music. And I love Gwen Stefani s music. Also Ashley McBryde and Maren Morris should be pushed over Miranda if they want to encourage more country female vocalists . Both better vocalists but I like Carly Pearce and Lauren Alaina and Raelynn and yes Kelsea. They are great new female singers. Blake should be given due credit for introducing many to country music that would not listen to it otherwise and having a vast knowledge of older country artists. You know who Blake had perform at his new restaurant opening in OK? Jeanine Seely ,John Conlee, and Ronnie Milsap. Not exactly hollywood pop stars. Blake is still very funny but more careful and thoughtful in what he says and tweets now. We all make mistakes. Blake is the happiest he has ever been and commercial success and awards just no longer seem to matter to him. Unlike his ex who loves awards and seems very driven and competitive and dare I say manipulative. Guess it worked for her though with some people didn’t it. I want Chris Stapleton or Jason Isbell to win best CMA album. More deserving.
November 8, 2017 @ 11:53 am
Blake should be shunned for selling out. His first four albums were very good and after his fifth album, his music stopped having anything at all to do with “country.” If you want to listen to some real contemporary country music, spend some time visiting this site and getting some suggestions of contemporary country music that’s actually country.
November 8, 2017 @ 12:13 pm
Blake didn’t sell out.
That’s a joke. His new album TS is outstanding. His vocals are impeccable as always. Blake can actually sing unlike other country singers that cant. Have you ever seen Blake live in concert?
I suggest you do as he is hands down the best country singer/ entertainer I have ever seen in concert. I am not alone in that assessment either.. 10/10 is my rating for TS.
November 8, 2017 @ 1:20 pm
You’re pretty much making albert’s points for him.
Blake’s voice isn’t terrible, but he ain’t no Charley Pride neither. He’s almost always the worst singer on the voice when the judges perform their songs.
You say you like Willie and Cash, country legends who also happen to be pop culture icons; but you don’t like the other names listed, who are also country legends but not pop culture icons.
You throw away the very heart and soul of country music by tossing aside Haggard, Strait, Hank and Jones. THESE NAMES ARE COUNTRY MUSIC.
You can like whatever you want to. Just don’t call it country when it’s clearly not.
November 8, 2017 @ 2:00 pm
Well we agree on one thing. I like Charley Pride. My guess is as far as musical tastes that’s where it might end. Although do you like Eddy Arnold by any chance cause it might be two. Agree to disagree.
November 8, 2017 @ 2:36 pm
Yes, actually I *have* seen him in concert, back prior to him selling out. And yes, he *did* sell out. Pure and simple.
And a 10/10? Really? You *seriously* believe that this album is perfect? That it is without flaw of any kind? It’s not the worst album of all time, but it’s not perfect by any stretch of the imagination. A 10/10 is an emotional fan reaction. It’s not an objective response in any way.
November 8, 2017 @ 2:43 pm
OK have to add 3 more. Glenn Campbell ;Kenny Rogers ;and Patsy Cline.
November 8, 2017 @ 3:29 pm
Benny Lee, Blake isn’t the worst singing judge on the Voice. That honor goes to Gwen. Even on the Voice’s FB page the comments have been brutal after one of her performances….Maybe they can’t autotune her enough in that setting…Even the worst contestants have had better comments.
November 8, 2017 @ 6:38 pm
If you aren’t a fan of strait country, then you aren’t a fan of country at all. If that’s the case, then no, Shelton does not deserve an extra heaping of respect for bringing you to us as he hasn’t done his job of highlighting country music in his position on the voice.
As for the review, I think this was very restrained on triggers part.
November 8, 2017 @ 5:23 pm
New Fan, you don’t make Blake look better by demeaning his ex, but you do make yourself look weird by commenting on his ‘happiness’ and other matters, of which you know nothing.
Yes, I like Miranda for her music and thoughtfully written songs, she seems happier too. So win/win for both of them.. That said, neither of them are on the top of my list as performers.
Stop believing the tabloid trash, I have a background in PR and know better than to read such garbage, I used to ”plant’ some of it..
November 8, 2017 @ 6:48 pm
Sophie I stand by all my comments about overrated Miranda and her fans. Miranda played the pity card to excuse her cheating ways and with some it worked. I say own your behavior Miranda. #Vices. I agree you don’t put down other talented music artists like Gwen and Blake to promote your own very flawed Idol. So why do her fans do it on Social Media all the time? Encouraged by her and her label and management and PR teams perhaps? Anyway it’s really weird and pathetic. Then anyone that tries to defend Gwen and Blake in anyway gets personally attacked. Please. Eye roll. Now back to the subject at hand. My comments on what I believe is an outstanding album by Blake, TS.
November 8, 2017 @ 9:44 pm
Well there you go again re; Miranda. You just can’t help yourself, can you?
November 8, 2017 @ 10:17 pm
Hey sophie go on twitter and Facebook to check out the hate Miranda s fans post about Gwen and Blake on any given day. Miranda and her team encouraged it. But you aleady know that don’t you? I just feel bad for Miranda s ex married tour manager Ryan and his wife. I am sure you know why don’t you.
November 9, 2017 @ 5:05 am
New “Country” Music Fan
You can stand by your comments all you want. That doesn’t make them accurate.
November 8, 2017 @ 5:52 pm
NCF ….you are more ‘ well-rounded’ than i gave you credit for in terms of your familiarity and tastes in trad country , it seems . Happy to hear that your thoughts on this stuff are somewhat informed . Have a listen to a greatest hits package from Merle Haggard or George Jones and perhaps you’ll understand why a lot of folks thinks its borderline blasphemy to call this new stuff ‘ country ‘ music .
November 8, 2017 @ 8:59 am
I may be one of the few here who has always liked classic country and No Doubt. All my parents played in our house were the country legends. Until The Voice, I had no idea who Blake Shelton even was. And I’m in my 20s so I discovered No Doubt myself, not because they were pushed on me by promoters. But I did read up on them because they became a favorite band of mine. One quick thing. Pop was always where Gwen’s heart was and she didn’t have much interested in fame. She wanted to be a stay at home mom. No joke. When John Spence, original lead singer of No Doubt committed suicide, she was pushed to the front of her “hobby” band and it became magic. I am glad that ska band became more rock/pop sounding because otherwise I would have missed out No Doubt. They would still be playing the club circuit as a hobby and no one would know them.
Onto Blake. Caught him doing a cover of the Thrill Is Gone on the Voice. It was luck. I wasn’t even a regular viewer. Loved his voice and humor. Added his whole discography to my stream and weeded out the songs I didn’t like. This is how I often do it. What’s left now are song from his first five albums plus a few random others. I like Texoma Shore more than anything he’s done in a long time but he writes great songs and I would really be impressed if he released an album of those and forget the critics. This album won’t sell or stream that well for him, so by today’s standards of what’s good, he on his way!
It is still weird to me that Blake and Gwen are a thing.
November 8, 2017 @ 10:49 am
Oh boo hoo your a jealous crybaby. Wheres your blankie.
November 8, 2017 @ 11:53 am
Oh no, another “whoa ohh, etc.” song.
Plus, Blake’s singing has passed into mannerism. He’s just not faking the olde sincerity like he used to.
Pass.
November 8, 2017 @ 12:38 pm
So after reading this review and some of the comments, I had to check out “Money” and a few others. I think you got it right, Trig. This is definitely an adult contemporary album, not much is the way of country music. Money, I do believe did it’s job and job was to make me laugh. Just not for the reasons they hoped for.
November 8, 2017 @ 6:04 pm
btw …this t-shirt song is pretty crappy ….tries to hard to be something but fails miserably .no emotion …no story ….She leaves him and HE’s wondering if she is missing him enough to wear his t-shirt to bed ?….wtf ….SHE left HIM !!!
November 8, 2017 @ 7:22 pm
Blake should put out an album called “Old Farts & Jackasses” and make it covers of his favorite country classics. It would be his best album yet.
November 8, 2017 @ 7:58 pm
Its 2017 not 2013. Time to move on. If I was held accountable for everything I said in jest or in frustration in the past I would be in trouble. Blake is a walking juke box. He knows all the country classic songs and repects those country artists. Congrats to Chris Stapleton for album of the year. Well deserved.
November 9, 2017 @ 8:54 am
I think you misunderstand me. My comment wasn’t meant as a criticism (at least mostly). I think if Blake put out an album with that name that it would be funny and in line with his sense of humor. Plus his great voice would be great at singing classic songs.
November 9, 2017 @ 3:54 pm
OK . Got It. Misunderstood the comment. Thanks for the explanation.
November 8, 2017 @ 8:28 pm
I think Trigger made a great review for this album. Blake is just a laid back country boy who appears on a singing competition and loves real country music. His songs are waaay better than anything on country radio these days, and compared to others in the genre he is country gold. You couldnt convince me that Blake has gone Hollywood if you showed me a video of him saying it himself. He talks about how he wants to retire one day and just stay home and hunt and fish for the rest of his life. He said that he can’t stay away from his home town in Oklahoma and that he is miserable when he’s in LA or New York or whenever he isn’t in the woods or wearing camoflaufge. And on top of all of that, the dude has a love for country music that he references every time he opens his mouth. So do some research before you say he’s “gone Hollywood.” As for his music… some of my favorite songs were sung by him. He can manage to record some stupid songs every now and then like “money”, but for the most part he sticks to his roots. The best songs he sings on this album are “got the t shirt” and “when the wine wears off.” These songs are amazing and sound like actual country songs. When he wants to, he can make a record that resonates with country fans. But on His last album “if I’m honest”, he didn’t do that at all. Not a single country song on it. But in his defense, I think he was more worried about singing about his divorce and new relationship rather than making the songs sound country. Speaking of his divorce. Miranda definitely cheated on him. When you hear him singing songs about his ex cheating on him, while Miranda is singing songs about cheating on her ex… and hearing Blake say that he went through the exact same situation as Gwen Stefani did (her ex husband cheated on her) and that his life blew up in his face… how could you not draw an obvious conclusion. He sings lyrics that say “little words like I and DO, LYIN, CHEATIN, SCREWED, yea all the words I though I knew, they got a brand NEW meaning NOW. I mean come on. He didn’t say anything about it because he respects Mirandas career and doesn’t want to ruin it. But he practically told us the truth. So all of you who jump to conclusions on blake based on some comment he made back in 2013, do some research, you’ll be surprised what you find.
November 8, 2017 @ 8:39 pm
Oh and as far as his comment in 2013 is concerned… well this is the way I see it. He wasn’t calling the older country artists “old farts and jackasses”. He was saying that kids these days think of them that way and don’t want to listen to music from an older era. Considering that I’m 18 yeas old. I would highly disagree with Blake on that statement. I have about 200 songs on my phone. All of them are country (none of this country pop crap) and most of them are from that last century. And even though a good many of them are from this century, the ones that are sound country just like the old ones but they just have a newer sound to them (like some of Jason aldean, luke Bryan, Eric church, and Blake shelton). So all in all, I don’t like his comment, but I don’t hold it against him. In my opinion, he was saying that’s how the kids feel these days. He obviously doesn’t feel that way about country music, I mean just watch the voice… he’ll tell you.
November 8, 2017 @ 9:55 pm
The Enquirer and others will be happy to know that at least one reader believes every word they print… As to Blake’s words, honorable men do not drag their ex’s through the dirt in public, especially when both are public figures..Blake acted dishonorably throughout and after both his marriages..
November 8, 2017 @ 10:23 pm
Miranda admitted she cheated in her song Vice. Blake confirmed it on his song SGAWWW. End of story. The songs tell the story. They always do. Move on. Blake has. That’s for sure. He released this new album to move on.
November 9, 2017 @ 4:57 am
So is it also true that he cheated with Cady Groves while still married to Miranda if rumours are anything to go by.
November 9, 2017 @ 6:08 am
Sorry you don’t understand satire, but that’s your problem, not mine. Personal business is just that, personal..You are way too invested in gossip and judgement..
November 11, 2017 @ 5:29 pm
Nope Elaine that’s not true, Blake didn’t cheat. Miranda did. Repeatedly. She has a huge ego thanks to some fans and some sites that blindly promote her.,
November 9, 2017 @ 6:33 am
Well said Sophie he did wrong to drag her through dirt but thankfully she came out even better career wise.
November 9, 2017 @ 6:35 am
Well said Sophie he did wrong to drag her through dirt but thankfully she came out even better career wise.
November 9, 2017 @ 9:01 am
So true, and the Nashville crowd, including her peers, seem to love and respect her. Her ex is mia, and should be…Karma will get the bad guys sooner or later.
November 11, 2017 @ 5:31 pm
Yes karma will get Miranda and I feel it coming real soon.
November 9, 2017 @ 8:47 am
I like him strictly for his looks and personality. If he gets married then it’s over. I couldn’t watch the Voice when Gwen was on there because it crushed all the fig newtons of my imagination. I’ve been trying to pick up the pieces but in the back of mind, all I can see are those neon red lips at the end of the tunnel.
November 9, 2017 @ 9:04 am
I couldn’t watch it because she didn’t know how to judge or help her team. The show is supposed to be about the contestants, not the judges.
November 16, 2017 @ 3:21 pm
He was voted da sexiest man alive, y’all. Oooooo, I knew he was always purdy.
November 9, 2017 @ 11:16 am
There’s nothing this asshole could ever do that would make me want to give him a chance. Nice review, though.
November 9, 2017 @ 4:16 pm
So Sophie and A and the rest of you Ran Fans can you explain to me why your girrl Miranda L. Is liking tweets on her twitter that everyone can see dissing FGL and Old Dominion and Sam Hunt and her vice co writer Shane McNally? Plus she unfollowed her friend Luke Bryan . Very unprofessional and uncool to publicly dis other musicians. Seems all she cares about is looking cool to the country hispter music types. What happened to her country music is a family love speech? This from the girl that wrote and preformed Little Red Wagon? Now I get a blog like this being critical to music artists that don’t like (that’s fair)but very rude for her to. Could she be fake and phony maybe? Maybe salty cause she lost best album., Also how is she helping any other women in country music except herself? ?? So happy Blake got away from her.
November 10, 2017 @ 10:48 am
Things change butthead.
November 9, 2017 @ 1:49 pm
Well, call me the minority here, but I loved a few songs. Especially, ‘I’ll Name the Dogs’ and ‘She’s Got a Way with Word’s. Not nearly as good as ‘Bring Back the Sunshine’.
Blake is radio country; this album is what you should expect!!
November 9, 2017 @ 11:43 pm
Wait what?? Blake acted dishonorably? He dragged Miranda through the dirt? And no I don’t believe a word the Enquirer says. I said it once and I’ll say it again. Blake sung songs about how his ex cheated on him… just listen to “she’s got a way with words.” And Miranda sung songs about cheating on her ex… just listen to “vice.” If you can’t figure it out on your own then you have some serious comprehension issues. They teach this stuff in school. Learn how to annotate a text by what it is saying. It’s pretty dog gone clear. And who was that that said something about karma getting him back for it because he was the bad guy. SHE F****** CHEATED ON HIM. I used to still respect her music even though I didn’t like her. But now it disgusts me to see her face. It says in the Bible that it’s a sin to cheat. And to me it’s more than that. As Blake stated in his music “little words like I and do, Lyin cheatin screwed, yea all the words I thought I knew, they got a brand new meaning now.” LISTEN to the lyrics. When someone says I DO they should mean it. End of story!!
November 10, 2017 @ 9:02 am
Please explain how you know all her personal business, and secondly, why do you care?
Where in Vice does she say that those actions were those of a married woman?
They describe a broken woman, and that is all. Watch the video..Blake is well known as a cheater and a player, the hypocrisy here is breathtaking. But that has nothing to do with why I think his music is pretty thin gruel. If I liked it, I would buy it, regardless..
“Annotate”? don’t use big words if you don’t know what they mean.
November 9, 2017 @ 11:55 pm
And of course she came out better career wise. She’s the woman in the relationship and everyone feels the need to defend her. I’m all for women’s rights and empowerment, but there’s gotta be a line somewhere. Trust me, my parents got divorced and I saw first hand how the courts favor women. My best friend was even forced to live with his mom who abused him and beat him on a daily basis rather than his dad who loved him as much as he possibly could. So keep defending that tramp all you want. Your hurting the world (a world which has gone completely soft by the way) when you do.
November 10, 2017 @ 7:06 am
Thomas James. I agree with your comments. Every word. What makes me so mad is that Miranda cheated and wanted out of the marriage to be a cool hipster in Nashville and her crazy fans have the nerve to trash Blake and Gwen online constantly to promote her boring music. We all know Gwen’s husband cheated on her too. Blaming the Victims. Disgusting.
November 10, 2017 @ 9:05 am
You and James need to seek help….or get a life..
November 10, 2017 @ 4:36 am
I can never forgive Gwen Stefani for being the Judas of second generation ska. Besides, The Cadillac Tramps will always be the greatest Orange County band ever!!
November 10, 2017 @ 7:15 am
You should give Gwen a break as she was in a horrible marriage for years. Shes more traditional than many realize. She is older and wants to be a good mom now. Her new Christmas album is wonderful. I love Gwen’s new music. She is an icon.
November 10, 2017 @ 10:00 am
Gwen is a good person. Don’t go after her because you don’t like her music. Blake and Gwen found each other in a tragic time in both of their lives, where (and Blake even said this) they went through the same exact situation in their marriages. If I can remember correctly, Gwen’s husband cheated on her with their kid’s nanny. That’s disgusting. And if they went through the “same exact” situation, that means Miranda did something along those lines as well. She is a low life tramp who only cares about her personal image in the country music industry. She’s playing the role of the sweet innocent wife that had just been through a bad divorce. And it’s bullshit. Most good people can see through it.
November 10, 2017 @ 10:13 am
And by the way Sophie. Yes I meant “annotate.” Wasn’t saying that you need to annotate his songs by taking physical notes or anything. They teach you in school how to annotate a text by evaluating what it is saying. And my point was this, if you can’t draw a conclusion from the music Blake and Miranda have put out since their divorce, then your gonna have a hard time figuring things out in life. And how are you gonna call me out for not knowing Miranda’s personal business, but then you go and say that Blake is a well known cheater? What a hypocrite. Nothing pointed to him being the cheater in their relationship. Heck he was the one who filed for divorce.
November 11, 2017 @ 5:38 pm
Well they try to protect Miranda but the truth has come out. She cheated and screwed her marriage up. She blew it. Her fans just won’t admit it. I don’t care but trashing Blake and Gwen to protect and promote her is where they croseed the line with me.
November 11, 2017 @ 8:29 am
Thomas, I shouldn’t dignify this with a response, but here goes. I have had two careers thus far. The first was in PR. After becoming fed up with the lying and bs, I returned to get a Master’s in a different field , one based on public service..One of my closest relatives still works in show biz, in a position that allows him to know a lot about celeb life, he tells me about his crazy world. Some things never change.
My posts are based on things that common sense would tell you are true..You don’t seem to know what a farce celeb life is, and why should you? You probably work at something much more honest and basic.
Good luck to you.
November 11, 2017 @ 9:27 pm
Sophie. Do you want a cookie?? And by the way your girl Miranda just made a comment that would offend most country music fans including me. She has the nerve to say “if you can’t sing then don’t” about Garth Brooks lip syncing at the CMAs. She was responding to her boyfriend who also called country music “three cords and the truth.” Keep supporting that “Nashville crowd” honey. They really seem to support country music.
November 12, 2017 @ 6:28 am
Thomas James again agree with every word in your comments. Every word.
November 12, 2017 @ 11:14 am
Thanks. Some people get it and some are just too ignorant
February 11, 2018 @ 10:26 pm
I just kind of glanced over this when it was first written, but I was driving the other day and heard “I Lived it” come on the radio and I really like this song. For some reason on first listen I didn’t even realize it was Blake that was singing this song, then the next day it came back on and I heard them say who it was. I actually like this type of song from him, because I think deep down this is the type of person he is. Will definitely give more of this album a listen now.
February 12, 2018 @ 6:05 am
Blake could release a song that makes “He stopped Loving Her Today” sound like “Cruise.” I still can’t defend him for releasing that God-awful “Boys Round Here.”