Blake Shelton kicked off the new year in style during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest, giving fans a night to remember with a powerful setlist. He performed fan favorites like “God’s Country”, his hit collab “Pour Me a Drink” with Post Malone, and surprised the crowd with his brand-new single, “Texas.”

The performance was extra special since “Texas” marks Shelton’s first original release in two years. After signing with a new record label, the country star felt the timing was right for a fresh chapter. And according to him, Post Malone gave him the push he needed.

“Then that kid came along and asked me to sing on his song with him,” Shelton told PEOPLE. “It took off and was a big hit this summer, and it reminded me like, ‘Hey, get off your a–! This may be your last chance to really take a big swing at this thing.’ So here I am.”

A Classic Country Nod to George Strait

Shelton’s new track, “Texas,” tips its hat to the King of Country himself, George Strait. The song tells the story of a man chasing after lost love, with a clever lyrical nod to Strait’s famous line about where all the exes end up.

With its classic country storytelling and Shelton’s signature charm, “Texas” is already shaping up to be a fan favorite. After his electric New Year’s Eve performance, one thing’s clear: Blake Shelton is back, and he’s ready to make 2025 a big year.