Photo: Robby Klein
Blake Shelton pledges to “Stay Country Or Die Tryin’” in the next chapter of his career.
Shelton delivered the latest track from his upcoming 12-track record, For Recreational Use Only, on Friday (April 11). Drew Parker, Graham Barham, Sam Ellis and Beau Bailey teamed up to write “Stay Country Or Die Tryin.’” The energetic track is reminiscent of Shelton’s career-spanning anthems “Ol’ Red” and “God’s Country,” the Oklahoma-born artist pointed out.
“When I heard ‘Stay Country or Die Tryin,’’ it took me back to the first time I heard ‘Ol’ Red’ or ‘God’s Country,’” Shelton said in a statement. “It’s got so much energy and is full of those little catchphrases and things we say out in the country. I absolutely fell in love with it. I’m proud of this recording—and I love singing it live even more. Hopefully, you’ll come catch a show and sing it with us.”
So far, Shelton has also released “Texas” — an anthem that nods to legendary country star George Strait — and “Let Him In Anyway.” Shelton delivered “Let Him In Anyway” when he announced his album’s release date last month. It’s an emotional ballad that sees the singer mourning the loss of a friend.
For Recreational Use Only is Shelton’s first full studio record in nearly four years. The 12-track project will also include collaborations with Shelton’s wife, fellow artist Gwen Stefani, plus Craig Morgan and John Anderson. see the full track list below. Find “Stay Country Or Die Tryin’” on iHeartRadio here (warning: language). For Recreational Use Only will arrive on May 9.
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)