Blake Shelton Revives Emotional Classic “The Baby” After Years Off the Setlist
Since stepping onto the country music scene in 2001, Blake Shelton has become one of the genre’s most influential voices. With 12 studio albums and 10 major tours under his belt, his music has resonated deeply with fans, producing timeless hits like Ol’ Red, God’s Country, and Some Beach. Yet among his extensive discography, one song stands out for its emotional depth—so much so that Shelton once removed it from his live performances due to its powerful impact on audiences.
That song is The Baby, a heartfelt ballad from his 2003 album The Dreamer, which tells the touching story of a son’s bond with his mother. Upon its release, the song struck an immediate chord with listeners, often moving audiences to tears during live performances. Shelton once recalled, “There’s a song that I quit doing years and years ago because the song is just so heavy. I would look out into the crowd and literally see people crying and running to the bathroom.”
Now, after years of leaving The Baby off his setlist, Shelton has decided to bring it back. During the opening night of his Back to the Honky Tonk Tour on February 22 in Hershey, PA, he surprised fans by reintroducing the beloved song. As the stage lights cast a warm glow over the venue, the atmosphere shifted, and the performance became more than just a song—it became a shared moment of reflection and emotion.
Looking back on his decision to retire the song, Shelton admitted, “Now that it’s been 20 years since it came out, I realize that it was a mistake to stop doing it back in the day. That’s just the power of country music—when a song truly connects with people.”
The crowd’s response was immediate and heartfelt. Fans expressed their gratitude for the song’s return, with many sharing personal memories tied to its lyrics. “This one and Austin give me chills every time,” one fan remarked, while another reminisced, “This was my mom’s ringtone for me for years before she passed away. I tear up every time I hear it.”
By reviving The Baby, Shelton not only honored a song that has meant so much to his fans but also reaffirmed country music’s unique ability to tell deeply personal stories. His willingness to embrace the song’s emotional weight serves as a testament to the connection between artist and audience—a reminder that music can be a powerful force of healing and remembrance.
For Shelton, this performance was more than just a return to an old favorite. It was a tribute to the enduring impact of music, proving that some songs, no matter how much time passes, will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who hear them.