Blake Shelton is back, and he’s coming straight for the heartstrings. After four long years, he’s finally breaking his silence with Let Him In Anyway—an emotional gut-punch of a song that marks the first track from his highly anticipated new album. Brace yourself, because this one hits deep. Fair warning: you might want to keep a box of tissues within arm’s reach.

Blake Shelton To Release First New Album In Four Years

Big news for Blake Shelton fans! After a couple of cryptic posts online that left people guessing, the acclaimed country singer has announced the release of his next album.

The Grand Ole Opry member made a major career shift last September when he parted ways with Warner Music Nashville, his label of more than twenty years. Shelton signed a new deal with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, the label boasting Lainey Wilson, Jason Aldean, and Jelly Roll among their ranks.

Blake Shelton signs with a new record label (BMG US / Instagram)
On Friday, March 14th, the “Austin” singer finally confirmed that his next studio album, For Recreational Use Only, will be released this May. The album is available for preorder here. He announced:

“It’s been a long time since I’ve had a new album out so I’m thrilled to share that “For Recreational Use Only” will be out May 9th!!!!”

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Along With The Album Comes An Emotional New Single

With the exciting news of his next record, Blake Shelton delighted fans with a surprise drop of an emotional new single, “Let Him In Anyway.” He wrote:

“PLUS, listen to my new song ‘Let Him In Anyway’ off the record now. I have been working on this music for years, and I’m beyond excited to finally share it with y’all!!” 

His previous single, “Texas,” debuted in November and received more first-week radio adds than any other song in his career.
Cover art for Blake Shelton’s “Texas” (Blake Shelton / Facebook)

According to a press release, “Let Him In Anyway” expresses the prayers of a man who is “hoping for divine forgiveness for a lost friend who was just shy of redemption.” Shelton called the ballad “one of the most powerful songs I’ve ever had the chance to record.” He added:

“Hardy is a co-writer and a friend, and I’ve never heard a song like this before. When I first listened to it, I knew it was something special. It’s an honor to bring it to life, and I’m incredibly proud of the record we made.”

Listen to “Let Him In Anyway” in the video below!