Revisiting a Country Classic: Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts Breathe New Life into “Mayberry”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Like old friends catching up on a weathered porch swing, the iconic country trio Rascal Flatts has joined forces with superstar Blake Shelton to reimagine their nostalgic 2002 chart-topper, “Mayberry.” The result is a beautifully twangy and brightly produced rendition that seamlessly blends their signature sounds, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved hit. This captivating collaboration serves as the third release from Rascal Flatts’ highly-anticipated album, LIFE IS A HIGHWAY: REFUELED DUETS, promising a collection of reimagined classics that will undoubtedly resonate with fans old and new.
“Mayberry,” in its “refueled” form, perfectly embodies the album’s theme of revitalization. The new arrangement features a prominent steel guitar that adds a layer of classic country charm, while the breezy production creates an atmosphere of relaxed nostalgia. The true magic, however, lies in the harmonious interplay between Shelton’s distinctive baritone and Rascal Flatts’ soaring vocal harmonies. Their voices intertwine effortlessly, each artist respecting the original melody while injecting their unique stylistic nuances. It’s a testament to their mutual admiration and the enduring power of the song itself.
Joe Don Rooney of Rascal Flatts expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “It was so much fun playing with Blake again. He was on our first two tours with us back in the day, and it means so much that he wanted to do this project with us. He’s one of the best in the business. He truly owned this song…it sounds like a Blake Shelton record now!” Rooney’s words highlight the genuine camaraderie between the artists and the exciting evolution of the track under Shelton’s influence.
The announcement of this “Mayberry” revamp comes on the heels of Rascal Flatts’ recent nomination for ACM Group Of The Year, a testament to the overwhelming outpouring of support following their reunion. After a period of hiatus, the trio – Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney – are clearly back with renewed passion and a desire to connect with their dedicated fanbase.
Their forthcoming album, LIFE IS A HIGHWAY: REFUELED DUETS, set to release on June 6th via Big Machine Records, is shaping up to be a significant event in the country music landscape. The project features nine reimagined Rascal Flatts hits, each featuring a diverse and impressive lineup of guest artists from various musical backgrounds. This eclectic approach promises to breathe new life into timeless tracks, offering fans fresh arrangements and unexpected collaborations.
The previously released tracks, the infectiously emotive “I’m Movin’ On” featuring the powerhouse vocals of Kelly Clarkson, and the record-breaking single “I Dare You” with the pop sensibilities of the Jonas Brothers, have already offered a tantalizing glimpse into the creative spirit of this project. The inclusion of Blake Shelton on “Mayberry” further solidifies the album’s potential to bridge generations of country music fans and showcase the enduring appeal of Rascal Flatts’ extensive catalog.
Fans eager to experience these reimagined classics can preorder/pre-save LIFE IS A HIGHWAY: REFUELED DUETS now, ensuring they are among the first to hear this exciting collection.
Life Is A Highway: Refueled Duets Album Track List:
- “I Dare You” (with Jonas Brothers)
- “Fast Cars And Freedom” (with Jason Aldean)
- “My Wish” (with Carly Pearce)
- “Mayberry” (with Blake Shelton)
- “Stand” (with Brandon Lake)
- “Summer Nights” (with Ashley Cooke)
- “What Hurts The Most” (with Backstreet Boys)
- “Yours If You Want It” (with Jordan Davis)
- “Life Is A Highway” (with Lzzy Hale)
- “I’m Movin’ On” (with Kelly Clarkson)
Adding to the excitement surrounding their new music, Rascal Flatts is currently on their nearly sold-out LIFE IS A HIGHWAY TOUR. With only two weekends of shows remaining, fans in Lafayette, LA (tonight) and Little Rock, AR (tomorrow) still have a chance to witness the trio’s electrifying live performances. The enthusiastic response to the tour underscores the deep connection Rascal Flatts maintains with their audience and their enduring legacy in country music.
About Rascal Flatts:
Hailed as one of the most influential groups in modern country history, Rascal Flatts is the chart-topping trio comprised of vocalist Gary LeVox, multi-instrumentalist Jay DeMarcus, and guitarist Joe Don Rooney. Formed in 2000, they have etched their name in music history with a string of genre-crossing hits including their breakout single, “Prayin’ for Daylight,” the heartfelt “Bless The Broken Road,” the emotionally resonant “What Hurts the Most,” and the iconic anthem “Life Is a Highway.” As esteemed members of the Grand Ole Opry, the group has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including 17 No. One hits, over 23.4 million albums sold, 35 million digital downloads, and over 12 billion total lifetime streams, with 4.6 billion streams on Spotify alone. They have also sold over 11 million concert tickets and earned more than 40 trophies from the ACA, ACM, AMA, CMA, People’s Choice, and more, solidifying their status as one of the most awarded country groups of the past two decades. Now, with renewed passion and their LIFE IS A HIGHWAY TOUR and the forthcoming collaboration album LIFE IS A HIGHWAY: REFUELED DUETS, Rascal Flatts is poised to celebrate 25 years of hits and the enduring impact of their music. For more information, visit rascalflatts.com.
About Blake Shelton:
With an impressive tally of 29 #1 singles, 52 million singles and 13 million albums sold, and nearly 11 billion global streams, Blake Shelton has received numerous accolades, including six ACMs, three AMAs, ten CMAs, 11 CMTs, and six People’s Choice Awards, among many others. Shelton recently announced his new album, For Recreational Use Only, set to release on May 9th. The 12-track album, his first in nearly four years, features his Top 10 Wheelhouse Records single “Texas” and includes appearances from Gwen Stefani, John Anderson, and Craig Morgan. Shelton has a busy touring schedule in 2025, having kicked off the year with his “Live In Las Vegas” Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace and recently concluding his “Friends & Heroes” Tour, which featured Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins, and Emily Ann Roberts. The Grand Ole Opry member also remains deeply involved in his Ole Red partnership with Ryman Hospitality, with locations currently in Tishomingo, Nashville, Gatlinburg, Orlando, and most recently, Las Vegas, which boasts a stand-alone venue complete with a rooftop stage and bar on the Las Vegas strip. For more information, please visit www.BlakeShelton.com and follow @BlakeShelton.