Story perspectives

New Music Competition 'The Road' Premieres October 19

10/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

The new music competition series, The Road, premieres on CBS on Sunday, October 19, 2023, at 9 p.m. ET.
Blake Shelton and Taylor Sheridan serve as executive producers, featuring 12 emerging artists touring with Keith Urban and Gretchen Wilson.
Artists compete for a chance to open for Urban, with decisions made by the artists, Wilson, and venue audiences.
The winner will receive a performance slot at the Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2026, a $250,000 cash prize, and a recording contract.
Viewers can stream the series on DirecTV, Fubo, and Paramount+, which offer free trials.

History

Historical Context

"American Idol," launched on June 11, 2002, transformed reality television by engaging viewers in talent selection through phone and internet voting. Created by Simon Fuller, it became a cultural phenomenon, averaging 26 million viewers weekly and spawning numerous imitators. The show's success not only elevated Fox to the top U.S. network but also launched the careers of stars like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood.

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Story summary

The new music competition series, The Road, premieres on CBS on Sunday, October 19, 2023, at 9 p.m. ET.
Blake Shelton and Taylor Sheridan serve as executive producers, featuring 12 emerging artists touring with Keith Urban and Gretchen Wilson.
Artists compete for a chance to open for Urban, with decisions made by the artists, Wilson, and venue audiences.
The winner will receive a performance slot at the Stagecoach Country Music Festival 2026, a $250,000 cash prize, and a recording contract.
Viewers can stream the series on DirecTV, Fubo, and Paramount+, which offer free trials.

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