Blake Shelton Says He’ll Never Release Another Album Without Gwen Stefani — Their Latest Duet “Hangin’ On” Proves Why
Blake Shelton’s newest album, For Recreational Use Only, features a variety of deeply personal tracks, but one song in particular stands out for its emotional resonance. Once again, Shelton has joined creative forces with his wife, Gwen Stefani, for a poignant duet titled “Hangin’ On,” which captures the complexities of moving on from a love that still lingers.
In a candid conversation on TODAY, Shelton spoke warmly about how much he cherishes working with Gwen in the studio. He emphasized that including her on his albums has become more than just a feature—it’s now a vital part of his process and identity as an artist.
“I can’t imagine putting out another record without her,” Shelton confessed. “She’s not just my wife—she’s my favorite singing partner, and there’s something about our voices together that feels right.”
Written by Greylan James, Sam Ellis, and Charles Kelley of Lady A, “Hangin’ On” carries a slow-burning, reflective tone. The lyrics trace a man’s attempt to move forward after heartbreak, only to be knocked off balance when he learns that his former flame has returned, stirring up feelings he thought he’d buried for good.
In the track’s vivid storytelling, Shelton sings: “I let go of any chance that you were comin’ back / Like I was supposed to / I let go of anything with any strings attached / Like I had to…” His delivery is tender and worn, painting a picture of someone who tried to do the right thing, only to be haunted by memories that won’t fade.
As the chorus swells, Gwen Stefani’s voice blends with Shelton’s, adding a striking contrast that breathes new life into the narrative. The lyrics reveal a shared vulnerability: “I hear you’re hangin’ on the other side of this town… I shoulda let go by now / But I keep hangin’ on to every word you said…” The two artists convey the emotional weight of a love that refuses to let go.
Despite the song’s theme of heartbreak, Shelton noted in another TODAY interview that recording the duet was surprisingly joyful. “Even singing about a breakup, it’s still a blast getting in there with Gwen,” he laughed, hinting at the playful energy that balances their real-life chemistry.
While their musical roots are different—Stefani with her pop background and Shelton entrenched in country—the couple has developed a shared sound that’s both fresh and uniquely theirs. “Hangin’ On” is a testament to that fusion, mixing emotional storytelling with genre-blending vocals that highlight the best of both worlds.
Their love story began on the set of The Voice back in 2014, where their friendship eventually blossomed into romance. By 2021, they were married in a private ceremony at Shelton’s Oklahoma ranch, which now serves as their shared sanctuary and creative retreat.
Though they’ve shared the spotlight many times—performing hits like “Nobody But You,” “Happy Anywhere,” and “Purple Irises”—they’ve never performed with Stefani’s sons on stage. Shelton revealed after a recent Grand Ole Opry show that it’s a dream of Gwen’s to one day have a full family performance, featuring Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo.
“That would be incredible,” Shelton said. “I think Gwen would absolutely love the idea of a family band someday. Maybe it’ll happen at the Opry—it’s definitely something we talk about.”
Officially released on May 9, For Recreational Use Only marks Shelton’s first full-length studio album in nearly four years. It’s also his debut under BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, signaling a fresh chapter in his storied career.
Comprising 12 tracks, the album dives deep into themes of love, change, and resilience, told through heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies. In addition to collaborating with Stefani, Shelton also teamed up with country veteran John Anderson and longtime friend Craig Morgan, adding layers of depth to the project.
The album’s arrival follows his sold-out Friends & Heroes Tour, which wrapped in March. With powerful new material and unforgettable duets like “Hangin’ On,” Shelton proves once again that his music continues to evolve—without ever losing its heart.
