Number 7: Blake Shelton

Now, I know what you're thinking, Blake Shelton has been around for over a decade, so why is he on a list of newer artists? With the release of his first big hit, "Austin", Blake made waves in the world of country music. But he is just now becoming a household name due to his appearance as a judge on the hit tv show "The Voice." Blake has released more than 8 albums, his most recent, Red River Blue, was released in the summer of 2011. So what makes Blake so amazing besides that pretty smile and his 6'4 stance? Well, for one, his wife. (Miranda Lambert, my love, my inspiration, I like to think of Blake and Miranda as a modern day Johnny and June) But we'll get to her later on in the countdown. ;) Blake's debut, self titled album had three big hits, that are still played regularly on country radio today. After the beginners luck of his first album, Blake didn't have another big record until 2004, with the album, Blake Shelton's Barn & Grill and the hit, "Some Beach". In 2007, Blake released Pure BS, then in 2008, Startin' Fires, and in 2009, Hillbilly Bone. Beginning in 2007, Blake's success returned and he's been on a roll ever since. At the 2012 Grammy Awards, Blake was up for the titles of "Best Country Solo Performance, "Best Country Song", and "Best Country Album." Although he didn't win, it was a huge accomplishment as an artist. Although I am not the biggest fan of Blake's newest album, Red River Blue, I am a fan of his older work, and therefore I am loyal to him. (As a true country music fan is). Blake sings of drinking, not giving a damn ("Kiss My Country Ass"), women, losing love, and his time spent in his home state, Oklahoma. He's known for his tale of jail break in the song, "Ol' Red." As well as his duet about not denying where you came from with Trace Adkins, "Hillbilly Bone". Blake also knows how to sing a great love song, as noted by his lyrics in the song "Over", "So tell me what I gotta do to win you over. You'll never have to wonder if you need another. You'll never have to wonder if I understand; And every time you reach for me you'll find a hand." See what I mean? Blake's humor and eye for talent landed him a spot on "The Voice" and America fell in love with him. What's next for Blake? Hopefully more music, really reaching back to his roots. And maybe a baby? His marriage to Miranda Lambert is almost a year in now, and there's talk of starting a family. Either way, Blake has a huge fan base and a lot of talent to back up his cocky attitude!