CBS is launching a new music series called The Road, premiering on October 19.
The show documents the journey of up-and-coming artists traveling across America for live performances. They play in various settings while establishing their careers in the tough music industry.
Gretchen Wilson, a renowned country performer, will serve as tour manager for the debut season. She manages logistics, makes travel arrangements, and mentors rising talent. Wilson balances her managing duties with full involvement in performances throughout the tour.
Keith Urban is the headline artist, with Blake Shelton serving as co-executive producer and performer. The series gives viewers unprecedented insight into the inner workings of professional touring. It demonstrates how venues are put up, timetables are maintained, and musicians prepare before they take the stage.
The Road’s tour manager, Gretchen Wilson, and her impact
Wilson is a seasoned country music artist with a two-decade career. She burst onto the scene in 2004 with her debut single Redneck Woman, which topped the Billboard country chart. Her first album, Here for the Party, achieved commercial success with over five million copies sold worldwide.
The artist has accumulated numerous accolades throughout her career. She holds Grammy and award wins from the ACM, CMA, AMA, and Billboard Music Awards. Her nine Grammy nominations reflect her impact on the country music genre. Wilson currently maintains 969,065 followers on Spotify with 1.18 million monthly listeners.
Her journey began in Pocahontas, Illinois, before relocating to Nashville. She became part of the Muzik Mafia, a collective of musicians and songwriters. Her discography includes All Jacked Up, One of the Boys, and Ready to Get Rowdy.
Her extensive experience positions her well for the tour manager role. Wilson handles multiple responsibilities as tour manager. She creates and maintains performance schedules across numerous venues. She arranges all travel logistics for the cast and crew members. She coordinates stage setups and technical requirements at each location.
Wilson acts as a bridge between artists and the production team. She manages backstage access and works alongside technical personnel. She ensures performance timing runs smoothly throughout each show. Her industry knowledge helps her mentor emerging musicians on stage presence, time management, and touring fundamentals on The Road.
The position demands multitasking and constant problem-solving. Wilson must balance her management obligations on The Road while preparing for her own performances. She shares insights from decades of touring experience with the newer artists.
Beyond management, Wilson takes the stage during select portions of the tour. She performs alongside the emerging musicians and Keith Urban. Her participation demonstrates professional performance practices to the newer talent. Her presence adds another layer of content for viewers interested in live music production.
Details of the production
Lucky Horseshoe Productions, 101 Studios, Bosque Ranch Productions, and MTV Entertainment Studios developed the series. Executive producers include Blake Shelton, Lee Metzger, Taylor Sheridan, David Glasser, and Keith Urban. The Road launches on CBS and streams on Paramount+, with a fall 2025 release date.
Gretchen Wilson brings credibility and experience to The Road's inaugural season. Her dual role as manager and performer provides a unique perspective. Her guidance will prove valuable to the emerging artists featured on The Road. The series promises comprehensive access to touring operations rarely seen on television.
You can watch The Road Sundays at 9 PM ET on CBS and stream it on Paramount+ the same day.