In 2019, during a special tribute program honoring the legendary Elvis Presley, country music star Blake Shelton delivered a standout performance with his rendition of “Suspicious Minds.” The tribute event, held in February of that year, featured a lineup of musical stars celebrating Elvis’s significant contributions to the music industry. NBC described the show as a commemoration of “one of the greatest musical events in television history,” echoing the impact of the station’s 1968 special that catapulted Elvis to global stardom.
The star-studded tribute included appearances by Jennifer Lopez, Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, Keith Urban, John Legend, Ed Sheeran, and more, as reported by Billboard. Blake Shelton played a dual role as both the host and a performer, taking center stage for a compelling rendition of “Suspicious Minds.”
Shelton’s choice to perform “Suspicious Minds” was fitting, given the song’s resonance within the country music community, with several artists covering it over the years. Notably, Shelton’s partner, Gwen Stefani, also paid homage to the song with her band No Doubt in a 2002 tribute. The night showcased Shelton’s personal spin on the iconic track, contributing to the overall success of the tribute with additional performances in the finale, including “If I Can Dream,” “Trouble,” “Guitar Man,” and more. In capturing the essence of Elvis’s legacy, Shelton’s performance undoubtedly added a touch of pride to the King of Rock and Roll’s enduring influence.
