In the rolling hills of Oklahoma, where the red dirt roads stretch beneath endless skies, Blake Shelton is living a life far removed from the glitz of Hollywood. The country music superstar, known for hits like “God’s Country” and his long tenure as a coach on The Voice, has found his truest joy not on stage but at home with his wife, Gwen Stefani, and her three sons—Kingston, 19, Zuma, 16, and Apollo, 11. In a rare and heartfelt update shared during a recent interview with People magazine, Shelton opened up about his role as a stepfather, offering a glimpse into the blended family life he cherishes on their sprawling Oklahoma ranch. “These kids are my world now,” Shelton said, his trademark grin softening with sincerity. “I can’t imagine life without them.” As he navigates the joys and challenges of raising Gwen’s sons, alongside a flourishing career and a decade-long romance, Shelton’s words paint a picture of a man whose heart is firmly rooted in family, music, and the simple pleasures of rural life.
Shelton’s comments come at a time when he and Stefani, who married in July 2021 after meeting as coaches on The Voice in 2014, are basking in a renewed sense of balance. Their love story, born from shared heartbreak and mutual support, has evolved into a partnership that thrives on collaboration and camaraderie. Yet, it’s their role as co-parents to Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo—sons Gwen shares with ex-husband Gavin Rossdale—that anchors their lives. Shelton’s latest remarks, a departure from his usual privacy about family matters, highlight the profound influence the boys have had on him and how he’s shaping their passions, particularly in music. From impromptu jam sessions at Ole Red to quiet evenings on the ranch, this is the story of how Blake Shelton is embracing fatherhood, fostering creativity, and building a legacy that extends beyond the charts.
A Blended Family Born from Love
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani’s journey to becoming a family of five began in the unlikeliest of places: the set of The Voice. In 2014, both were navigating personal turmoil—Shelton’s marriage to Miranda Lambert was crumbling, while Stefani was facing the end of her 13-year marriage to Rossdale. Their friendship, forged over late-night talks and shared laughter, blossomed into romance by late 2015. “Gwen saved my life,” Shelton told Billboard in 2016, reflecting on how their bond helped him through his divorce. By the time they tied the knot at Shelton’s Oklahoma ranch in 2021, officiated by The Voice host Carson Daly, they had already built a life together, with Gwen’s sons at the heart of it.
Shelton, who has no biological children, stepped into the role of stepfather with intention, drawing inspiration from his own stepfather, whom he described as a hero during a 2021 interview with KFROG’s The Ride with Kimo & Heather. “I have a stepfather in my life who’s one of my heroes,” he said. “I love him and look up to him like a father, so I know how to do this right.” His commitment is evident in the way he speaks of Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo, whom he affectionately calls his “kids.” In his recent People interview, Shelton shared that he’s been helping raise the boys for a decade, a role that has reshaped his priorities. “I think being a stepdad has changed my perspective,” he told Access Hollywood in 2023. “I’m not the first person I think about anymore.”
The family’s life in Oklahoma, where they spend much of their time, is a stark contrast to the Los Angeles bustle they once knew. The 1,300-acre ranch in Tishomingo, complete with a chapel where Blake and Gwen wed, is a haven of fishing ponds, ATV trails, and wide-open spaces. “It’s like Disneyland for the boys,” Shelton quipped, describing how the kids have embraced rural life. From fishing trips to bonfires, the ranch has become a backdrop for bonding, where Shelton’s down-to-earth charm complements Gwen’s vibrant energy. Their summers, as Shelton noted, are often “wide open,” filled with spontaneous adventures and family time, a far cry from the rigid schedules of their Hollywood days.
The Boys’ Musical Passions: A Family Affair
Shelton’s latest update shines a spotlight on the boys’ burgeoning love for music, a passion he’s nurtured without forcing. Kingston, now 19 and pursuing a career in music, has leaned into rock, inspired by his father, Gavin Rossdale, frontman of the band Bush. “Kingston’s got this incredible ear for melody,” Shelton told Us Weekly. “He’s writing songs that are Justin Bieber-level good. I’m like, ‘Oh god, I can’t believe it.’” To support Kingston’s ambitions, Shelton gifted him a Logic studio, helping him hone his skills as a songwriter rather than a performer. In August 2023, Kingston took the stage at Shelton’s Ole Red bar in Tishomingo, delivering a performance that left Gwen in tears. “It’s crazy when you see your kid find their gift,” she told People, her voice thick with emotion.
Zuma, 16, has carved his own path, gravitating toward country music—a surprise for a family steeped in rock and pop. “He’s leaning into country 150 percent,” Shelton shared with People, his pride evident. “He’s a fan of older stuff like George Strait and newer artists too. It’s wild to see.” Zuma made his stage debut in July 2024 at Ole Red in Nashville, covering Zach Bryan’s “Oklahoma Smokeshow” while strumming a guitar. Shelton introduced him with a grin, rallying his nearly seven million social media followers to show up. “Hey y’all, our boy Zuma’s performing at Ole Red Tishomingo this Friday!” he posted on Instagram Stories. Zuma’s performance was a hit, with fans on X praising his raw talent and Shelton’s mentorship. On his 16th birthday, Zuma joined Rossdale on stage during a Bush concert in New Jersey, a moment that underscored the family’s musical synergy.
Apollo, the youngest at 11, is still finding his way but shows a budding interest in music. A viral clip from 2024 captured Shelton singing “Old MacDonald” to a then-baby Apollo, a memory Gwen shared to celebrate Shelton’s 30th number-one country single, “Texas.” “He’s picking flowers for Easter and singing along to whatever’s on the radio,” Gwen posted on Instagram, set to their duet “Purple Irises.” Apollo’s playful energy often steals the show, whether he’s high-fiving Shelton at events or joining family fishing trips. “He’s the little boss of the house,” Shelton laughed, noting Apollo’s protective older brothers, Kingston and Zuma, dote on him.
Shelton’s influence on the boys’ musical tastes is subtle but profound. “I never push my music on them,” he told People. “But when they ride in my truck, they hear what’s on my radio—usually country.” This organic approach has fostered a love for the genre in Zuma, while Kingston’s rock influences reflect Rossdale’s legacy. Gwen, meanwhile, brings her No Doubt and solo pop flair, creating a household where musical styles collide. Their collaborations, like the 2020 duet “Nobody But You” and 2024’s “Purple Irises,” show how music binds the family, with the boys often joining impromptu jam sessions at home.
Navigating Co-Parenting with Grace
The family dynamic is not without complexity. Gwen shares her sons with Rossdale, who remains an active co-parent despite their 2015 divorce. Shelton has praised Rossdale’s involvement, noting their cordial relationship. “Gavin’s a great dad, and we all want what’s best for the boys,” he said in a 2024 Access interview. Rossdale, in a 2023 podcast, described their co-parenting as distinct, with different styles that give the boys “an incredible perspective.” This balance allows Shelton to focus on being a supportive stepfather, a role he takes seriously. Before proposing to Gwen in 2020, he sought the boys’ approval, a gesture that cemented their bond.
Shelton’s commitment led him to step back from The Voice after 23 seasons in 2023. “I needed to be there for Gwen and the kids,” he explained. “That’s the most important job I’ve got.” The decision freed up time for family milestones, like Zuma’s stage debut and Kingston’s songwriting ventures. Gwen, too, has balanced her career—releasing her fifth album, Bouquet, in 2024 and reuniting with No Doubt for Coachella—while prioritizing motherhood. “I felt selfish making Bouquet,” she admitted to AOL, “but the boys are my heart.”
A Life of Simple Joys
The family’s Oklahoma ranch is the heart of their life together. “It’s where we’re happiest,” Shelton said, describing evenings spent watching movies or grilling burgers. Gwen’s Instagram posts capture this idyll—Apollo picking flowers, Zuma strumming a guitar, Kingston sketching song ideas. Their 2023 Christmas card, featuring the family in matching black suits, radiated warmth, with Gwen’s caption, “Happy Holidays from Glen, Blake, and the Boys,” earning thousands of likes.
Shelton’s update also hints at future plans. He’s teased the idea of a family band, joking with TODAY about jamming with the boys. With his 2025 album For Recreational Use Only and a new single, “Stay Country or Die Tryin’,” he’s busier than ever, yet family remains his anchor. Gwen’s recent tribute for his 49th birthday, set to their duet “Nobody But You,” underscored their bond: “You’re my everything,” she wrote.
A Legacy Beyond Music
Shelton’s rare update reveals a man transformed by fatherhood. His pride in Kingston’s songwriting, Zuma’s country roots, and Apollo’s boundless energy reflects a life enriched by love. As he and Gwen navigate their blended family, their story—rooted in music, resilience, and heart—continues to inspire. Whether at Ole Red or on the ranch, Shelton’s “kids” are his greatest hit, proving that the best songs are those sung together.
