Blake Shelton honors ‘frontline workers’ with full-band show at Ole Red in Orlando, Florida
by Preshias Harris for Country Music News International
New album, Body Language, set for release in May
Blake Shelton marked his first visit to Ole Red Orlando with a full band performance for a limited number of frontline workers and special guests at the restaurant and music venue inspired by Shelton’s 2002 hit song, “Ol’ Red.” The fourth Ole Red location opened at Orlando’s ICON Park™ last summer brings the best of southern food, hospitality and concert-quality live music to residents and visitors alike.
Shelton shared with the intimate but lively crowd that it was the first time he had performed his single “Minimum Wage” live after the COVID-19 pandemic brought touring and live entertainment to a standstill.
“I wanted to come here and do a proper grand opening,” said Shelton. “Even if it’s not the same as having this whole room full of people, we are going to pretend it is tonight.”
Shelton also presented Ole Red Orlando with a special outfit he wore on NBC’s “The Voice” along with an outfit worn by fiancé Gwen Stefani. Both outfits are now on display at the venue. The two-story, 17,000+-square-foot entertainment venue operates alongside Ole Red locations in Tishomingo, Oklahoma; Nashville, Tennessee; and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. More at https://olered.com and follow @olered on social media.
The song “Ol’ Red” was written by James “Bo” Bohon, Don Goodman and Mark Sherrill and was originally recorded by George Jones on his album, If Only My Heart Had a Voice. Ole Red venues are owned and operated by Ryman Hospitality Properties. The company also owns the Grand Ole Opry and the name of the venues is “OLE Red” (rather than “Ol’ Red”) to honor the Grand Ole Opry.
Currently, Shelton is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his first major hit, “Austin.” His new album, Body Language, will be available 21 May, 2021. More information at https://www.blakeshelton.com/austin.
Photo Credit: Ole Red Orlando
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