In the ever-competitive landscape of singing competitions, CBS has rolled out a fresh contender that’s already turning heads with its unique twist on the genre. “The Road,” hosted by country superstar Keith Urban and featuring Blake Shelton as a key producer and decision-maker, premiered last night, October 20, 2025, delivering a high-stakes blend of raw talent, personal stories, and the gritty realities of life on tour. Unlike traditional studio-bound shows, this one thrusts 12 aspiring country artists into the real world of performing—opening for Urban himself in front of live audiences across the country. The prize? A life-changing $250,000 and a recording contract, but only after surviving weekly eliminations based on crowd votes and tough calls from the pros.
The debut episode, filmed at Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall in Fort Worth, Texas, set the stage for what’s shaping up to be a rollercoaster season. With Gretchen Wilson serving as the no-nonsense tour manager and mentor, the contestants—ranging from seasoned songwriters to wide-eyed newcomers—hit the ground running. Each performed an original song, pouring their hearts out to a rowdy Texas crowd armed with voting apps. The audience scored them on a 1-10 scale, determining the top three safe spots and the bottom three up for elimination. From there, Urban and Shelton huddled to decide who would hit the road home.
Spoiler alert: If you’re planning to catch up on Paramount+ or haven’t watched yet, proceed with caution. We’re diving deep into the performances, the highs, the lows, and that gut-wrenching first cut. Night 1 proved that in country music, it’s not just about the voice—it’s about connecting with the fans who make or break careers.
Kicking things off was Adam Sanders, a 37-year-old from Lake City, Florida, who’s no stranger to the industry grind. As a songwriter behind hits like Cole Swindell’s “Ain’t Worth the Whiskey” and Dustin Lynch’s “Hell of a Night,” Sanders has been paying his dues for years. He chose “What If I’m Right,” the title track from his 2021 debut album, which he funded by selling songs to bigger names. His performance was a powerhouse, commanding the stage with confident vocals and a story of perseverance that resonated. Urban praised him for “coming out and killing it,” noting how he “took charge” of the room. Shelton echoed that, saying Sanders “made you listen to it.” It was a strong opener that set a high bar, proving Sanders isn’t just a behind-the-scenes guy—he’s ready for the spotlight.
Next up, Britnee Kellogg, a 40-year-old mom of three from Anthem, Arizona, brought vulnerability to the forefront with “Hey Mama.” A two-time “American Idol” alum (Seasons 11 and 13), Kellogg has built a following on TikTok with viral tracks, but her real-life balancing act stole the show. Written during her battle with postpartum depression, the song hit home for many in the audience, especially fellow moms. Shelton highlighted the emotional connection, pointing out teary-eyed fans and calling her “one of the best female vocalists in the competition.” He admired her grit as a parent chasing dreams. Urban agreed, saying he “likes” her voice a lot and that she “just looks like a star.” Kellogg’s set was a reminder that country thrives on real stories, and she delivered with polish and heart.
Cody Hibbard, 32, from Adair, Oklahoma, followed with “Looking Back Now,” a reflective heartbreak tune drawing from his own turbulent past. Adopted from South Korea as a baby, Hibbard dreamed of the Navy but was derailed by injury and pill addiction. Now sober and focused, his performance showcased likability over vocal fireworks. Shelton admitted his range is limited but emphasized, “He had the audience.” Urban called him “super likable,” and the crowd’s energy backed that up. Hibbard’s authenticity shone through, turning personal pain into relatable anthems that could carry him far.
Jenny Tolman, a 29-year-old Nashville native, lightened the mood with “I Know Some Cowboys,” a fun, crowd-pleasing track about her love for the cowboy lifestyle. As a mom touring away from her husband and young son for the first time, Tolman brought energy but faced critique for needing more variety. Shelton commended her for making it work in competitive Nashville, while Urban suggested she “work the audience a bit more” and “step it up vocally.” It was solid but didn’t quite ignite the room like some predecessors.
Forrest McCurren, 35, from Jefferson County, Missouri, offered a more introspective vibe with “Small Prayers, Big Blessings,” a song about appreciating life’s simple gifts. Known for his Americana roots and singer-songwriter style, McCurren charmed the producers early on—Shelton said he had them “wrapped around his finger in five minutes.” But in a high-energy venue, his seated, storytelling approach felt mismatched. Urban noted he’d thrive in a intimate spot like Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe but worried about rowdy tour crowds. Shelton agreed he’s “more of a singer/songwriter,” questioning how that translates to big stages. McCurren’s talent was evident, but connection was key—and it wobbled here.
Billie Jo Jones, 34, from Emory, Texas, powered through despite not feeling 100%, delivering “Some Girls Don’t Cry” with raspy control that impressed. A mom of four with Texas chart success, Jones draws from icons like Shania Twain and Loretta Lynn. Urban called her confident, and Shelton raved about her pitch-perfect delivery: “It’s almost like she wasn’t singing live.” Her resilience shone, making her a standout for sheer determination.
Briana Adams, 30, from tiny Winchester, Texas (population 50), channeled her roots in “You Only Know the Name,” blending Waylon Jennings grit with Janis Joplin soul. Shelton loved her small-town authenticity and respected her songwriting from experience. Urban advised mic work for dynamics, but noted she got the crowd engaged. Adams’ performance was raw and real, hinting at untapped potential.
Channing Wilson, the eldest at 49 from Lafayette, Georgia, brought veteran polish with “Blues Comin’ On.” A co-writer on Luke Combs’ No. 1 “She Got the Best of Me,” Wilson has 25 years of touring under his belt and a Warner Chappell deal. Urban said the song “played to every part of his voice,” while Shelton likened him to a “country legend we already know.” From the first note, he owned the stage, proving experience counts.
Blaine Bailey, the youngest at 23 from Tahlequah, Oklahoma, honored his Native American (Keetoowah) heritage and late father with “T-Shirt,” wearing a feather in his hat. His 2024 debut album “Home” earned acclaim, but Shelton noted the uniqueness of his cultural edge in country. Unfortunately, the performance fell flat—Urban said he “lost the room,” and Shelton stressed balancing message with audience connection. It was a bold choice, but the energy didn’t land.
Olivia Harms, 29, from Canby, Oregon, daughter of ’90s country singer Joni Harms, performed “Ain’t My First Rodeo” to woo the rodeo-loving crowd. A seasoned performer since 2011, Harms is blazing her own trail. Shelton called her “an important artist” for her cowgirl authenticity, but Urban felt it was “a bit too reserved” for the rowdy fans, noting the audience was getting harder to impress.
Jon Wood, 28, from Wake Forest, North Carolina, cranked up the honky-tonk with “Too Country,” unapologetically redneck. In Nashville for a decade, Wood’s Spotify hits like “What Her Leaving Left” show promise. Shelton gushed over his “true honky tonk sound,” while Urban suggested pitching it higher for more range. Wood’s vibe was pure country fun.
Closing strong was Cassidy Daniels, 25, from Marion, North Carolina, with “Crazy Love,” a scorned-woman anthem that earned a standing ovation. Urban called her “loose and carefree,” ending the night perfectly. Shelton said his “heart was still racing,” praising her rock-infused energy.
As votes tallied, the top three—automatically safe—were Cassidy Daniels, Cody Hibbard, and Adam Sanders. Urban told them they “came out swinging.” The bottom three: Olivia Harms, Forrest McCurren, and Blaine Bailey. Shelton addressed the tough spot, emphasizing it’s about that night’s connection.
In the elimination huddle, Urban and Shelton weighed uniqueness and potential. They saved McCurren for his “unique take” and Harms for her cowboy appeal in Texas. Ultimately, they sent Blaine Bailey home, citing his least connection. Shelton explained, “Whatever you give them is what you get back,” and Urban reiterated the room loss. Bailey exited gracefully, his heritage-infused music a highlight despite the cut.
The remaining 11—Adam Sanders, Billie Jo Jones, Briana Adams, Britnee Kellogg, Cassidy Daniels, Channing Wilson, Cody Hibbard, Forrest McCurren, Jenny Tolman, Jon Wood, and Olivia Harms—now head to the next city, facing tougher crowds and higher stakes. Fan buzz online highlights Daniels’ closer as epic and Bailey’s exit as a shock, given his fresh voice in country. Shelton’s producer role adds insider edge, while Wilson’s mentorship promises drama.
This premiere underscores “The Road’s” appeal: It’s not just singing—it’s surviving the tour life, building fanbases one gig at a time. With originals only, it spotlights songwriting, separating contenders from pretenders. As Urban reflected, music’s about pulling people out of pits, and Night 1 did just that. Tune in next Sunday at 9/8c for more twists—who’ll thrive on the road ahead?
