Country music icon Keith Urban is set to headline a groundbreaking new reality competition series, "The Road," premiering on CBS in fall 2025. This unique show, produced by Blake Shelton, Taylor Sheridan, Lee Metzger, and David Glasser, aims to unearth the next big name in music through real-world touring experiences.

A Revolutionary Journey: Find Your Voice on the Road

The Vision Behind the Show

The concept of "The Road" was born from a desire to provide emerging artists with an authentic taste of life on tour. Keith Urban, a four-time Grammy winner, shared his excitement about the project, reflecting on his own early days performing in small venues. “I spent much of my youth playing in various pubs, sometimes just for the bartender,” he recalled. “There’s something invaluable about throwing artists into a real-world environment to discover their true potential.”Urban emphasized that while paying dues can be challenging, it teaches essential skills that cannot be learned in a classroom. “Building a set list, deciding whether to extend or cut a song during a performance, and learning how to engage with a live audience—these are lessons only gained through experience,” he noted. For Urban, touring has always been his passion, where “the rubber meets the road.” He believes this is the only path for those who aspire to become performers.

Showcasing Emerging Talent Across America

"The Road" will traverse iconic music venues across the United States, offering aspiring musicians the chance to perform as opening acts for Keith Urban. The tour kicks off on March 2 at Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall in Fort Worth, Texas, and concludes exactly one month later at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. Along the way, stops include The Factory in Deep Ellum, Dallas; Oklahoma Ranch in Oklahoma City; Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa; Minglewood Hall in Memphis; and Marathon Music Works in Nashville.Each venue provides a unique setting for these emerging artists to showcase their talents. Audiences play a crucial role in determining which artists advance to the next city on the tour. All performances are free, but tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, adding an element of exclusivity to each event.

Executive Producers Share Their Vision

Blake Shelton, known for his work on "The Voice," expressed his enthusiasm for "The Road." “Taylor Sheridan’s incredible work and my long-time collaborator, Lee Metzger, make this venture truly special,” Shelton said. “I understand the challenges of chasing a music dream and living life on tour. I’m eager to help discover new talent and offer them a platform to shine.”Sheridan, renowned for creating hit shows like "Yellowstone," described "The Road" as part of a revolution in country music. “We’re building a platform for the next generation of leaders in country music,” he stated. “This isn’t about shiny floors and studio audiences. It’s about getting in the van, going to the next town, and winning over crowds. Do it enough times, and you become a leader.”

High Expectations and High Stakes

Throughout the tour, Urban will perform songs from his latest album, "High," including his current single, “Straight Line.” Each stop presents a high-stakes opportunity for emerging musicians to prove themselves in front of live audiences. The competition format ensures that only the most talented and resilient performers will progress.The Road promises to be more than just a competition—it's a journey that tests the mettle of every artist involved. By immersing them in the raw, unfiltered world of touring, the show offers a rare glimpse into what it truly takes to succeed in the music industry. As the tour unfolds, fans can expect to witness not only exceptional performances but also the growth and transformation of these up-and-coming stars.