Gretchen Wilson Reveals the Unexpected Chemistry That Made Her Collab With Blake Shelton & Keith Urban Unforgettable. ML

Country Icons Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, and Gretchen Wilson Unite for CBS’s The Road

Three of country music’s biggest names — Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, and Gretchen Wilson — are teaming up for a new CBS singing competition, The Road, premiering Sunday, October 19. The series gives rising artists a chance to open for Urban on tour, with Shelton serving as co-creator and Wilson taking on the role of tour manager.

“It was the perfect mix,” Wilson told TV Insider. “We all brought something unique and valuable to these musicians.”

Wilson, who has toured with Shelton before, said she didn’t know Urban well prior to filming. “We’ve always been cordial in passing,” she said, “but I knew Blake a little better.”

On set, Shelton remained his usual charismatic self. “Always hilarious, always having a good time,” Wilson said. “He’s fun to be around.” In contrast, Urban impressed with his professionalism. “He’s so well put together — being around him makes you reflect on yourself.”

From Performer to “Tour Momager”

Wilson’s involvement came unexpectedly. Initially, producers considered hiring a traditional tour manager. But, according to Wilson, Shelton pitched her name, saying, “Well, it sounds like you’re describing Gretchen Wilson.”

She was contacted just two weeks before filming began. “They asked if I could make myself available. I moved some things around — you’d be silly to turn this down.”

Her role, while not administrative, involved hands-on mentoring. “I was there for everything — soundchecks, rehearsals, questions, support. They started calling me ‘tour momager.’” Whether offering advice on performance or handing out water backstage, Wilson became a steady presence. “I learned a lot, not just about them, but about myself.”

Reality TV — The Real Kind

Wilson praised the unscripted nature of The Road. “No one gave me lines or suggestions. They let me be myself,” she explained. Her prior experience with scripted “reality” shows left her disillusioned. “This was different. The producers just stood back and captured it all — beautifully, with 13 cameras.”

She described the set as “crazy big but family-oriented,” with authentic emotions from the contestants. “Their futures were on the line. It wasn’t just a TV show to them — this was real.”

Director Taylor Sheridan’s approach allowed raw moments to shine. “No interruptions. He let it happen naturally. It was beautifully done.”

A Personal Learning Experience

Wilson was drawn to the opportunity to work alongside Shelton and Urban. “These are two people I admire,” she said. More importantly, she valued seeing the industry from another angle. “I learned how invested the crew is. They care just as much as the performers. I gained a whole new respect for behind-the-scenes work.”

The show also highlights the intense demands of life on the road. “Seventeen-hour overnight bus rides, little rest, then performing under pressure. It never gets easier — the stakes just get higher.”

What to Expect from Wilson on Screen

Viewers will see Wilson’s signature authenticity. “I’ve always been real. I was 27 when I made it — I’d lived life already. I just tell the truth,” she said. “Maybe that’s what they needed for this role. I treat people like I want the weather: just tell me what it is, and I’ll deal with it.”