There’s no question in our minds that Blake Shelton is one heckuva guy. Warm, witty, and talented, the Oklahoma native never seems to hesitate to pitch in when he discovers a need. So when opening a new Ole Red bar, restaurant, and entertainment venue in Gatlinburg, Tennessee gave him an opportunity to make a difference, he took it.
On March 13, Blake appeared at the grand opening for his third Ole Red location to kick off a weekend-long celebration affectionately dubbed “Spring Blake.” In a press conference earlier in the day, he explained why this spot was so special to him.
[RELATED: Blake Shelton to Open Fourth Ole Red Restaurant In Orlando]
“When I think of country music and where it started, I think of the mountains of East Tennessee,” he said. “I’m so proud to be here and I think this one may be my favorite location because the music is the focal point. The room is almost shaped like a speaker, I love it!”
Blake also presented the area’s Gatlinburg-Pittman High School with a check for over $54- thousand for music education, money raised through an online auction and a financial match from the Ryman Hospitality Properties Foundation.
Following the press conference, the country music superstar treated fans to a fun night of music that included special guests and fellow Oklahomans, the Swon Brothers.
[RELATED: Blake Shelton Opens Ole Red With Blake & Friends Star-Studded Nashville Party]
“Spring Blake” will continue March 14 – 17 with a line-up of performances from former contestants on NBC’s “The Voice”:
March 14: Lauren Duski
March 15: Pryor Baird
March 16: Red Marlow
March 17: Emily Ann Roberts
For more details on Ole Red Gatlinburg and a cleanser of events, check out their website here.