Introduction:
Blake Shelton’s Wild Hair Moment Opening for Toby Keith in 2003
Back in 2003, long before The Voice and his clean-cut image, Blake Shelton took the stage with shoulder-length curly hair that fans still can’t forget. On August 20th at the Shoreline Amphitheater in California, Shelton opened for country giant Toby Keith on the Shock’n Y’all Tour—sporting wild, golden curls that shimmered under the stage lights.
It was a bold look for the rising star. His hair bounced with every move, giving him more of a rock rebel vibe than traditional country crooner. Fans loved it—and so did Toby. During the show, Keith joked from backstage, “Blake, is that a new look or did you get caught in a tornado?” Blake laughed and replied, “Just trying something new. Should I keep it?”
The audience roared in approval.
Shelton later recalled in interviews that touring with Toby Keith was a turning point in his career. “Toby was the first big artist who gave me a real shot,” he said. “I looked up to him.” Their bond was revisited during the 2024 Toby Keith: American Icon special following Keith’s passing, where Shelton reflected on that unforgettable time.
Even today, fans dig up those old photos of “Blake the Curly Cowboy” and smile. That wild hairstyle wasn’t just a fashion moment—it was a symbol of youth, freedom, and a country star on the rise. And while his look may have evolved, the energy and spirit of that night still echoes through every chord he plays.