Based on a True Story...
Blake Shelton · 2013
44 min · 12 tracks · country music
A vibrant blend of contemporary country rhythms and relatable storytelling that captures the essence of small-town life.
Top tracks — play these first
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Boys 'Round Here Start here — This track serves as an anthem for pride in Southern lifestyle, showcasing playful lyrics and a sing-along chorus that perfectly encapsulates the album's spirit.
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Mine Would Be You — This ballad stands out with its poignant storytelling and emotional depth, reflecting Blake's ability to convey vulnerability amidst his typically upbeat sound.
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Granddaddy's Gun — This track combines nostalgia and storytelling effectively, illustrating how personal memories can shape identity and connection to family heritage.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album balances energetic tracks with reflective moments, showcasing relatable storytelling within a contemporary country framework.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a high-energy track, 'Boys 'Round Here', which sets a lively tone that continues through the first half.
- Several tracks feature prominent use of banjo and fiddle, typical of contemporary country, while maintaining a pop sensibility.
- The lyrics often reflect personal narratives and small-town themes, creating a relatable atmosphere for listeners.
- The last three tracks slow down the tempo, providing a contrast to the earlier upbeat songs and allowing for emotional reflection.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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5/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
- upbeat tracks for road trips
- nostalgic storytelling vibes
- catchy hooks for group listening
- easy background for gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of experimental sounds
- prefer fast-paced instant hits
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album solidified Shelton's mainstream success and recognition in country music.
- Themes
- Southern camaraderie· small-town romance· Nashville storytelling
- Career context
- Released on March 26, 2013, this album marked Blake Shelton's fourth studio release and came during a period of significant mainstream success following his victory on 'The Voice.' By this time, Shelton had established himself not only as a chart-topping artist but also as a television personality, which helped broaden his appeal beyond traditional country music fans.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Luke Bryan· Jason Aldean· Kenny Chesney
Tracklist
- 1 Boys 'Round Here Start here 4:49
- 2 Sure Be Cool If You Did 3:35
- 3 Do You Remember 3:29
- 4 Small Town Big Time 3:51
- 5 Country on the Radio 3:53
- 6 My Eyes 3:10
- 7 Doin' What She Likes 3:43
- 8 I Still Got a Finger 3:38
- 9 Mine Would Be You 4:00
- 10 Lay Low 3:14
- 11 Ten Times Crazier 3:04
- 12 Granddaddy's Gun 3:34
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Same Trailer Different Park
Kacey Musgraves
Shares relatable narratives and a modern twist on traditional country storytelling.
Crash My Party
Luke Bryan
Combines upbeat melodies with themes of love and small-town life, similar to Shelton's vibe.
Platinum
Miranda Lambert
Features strong storytelling and contemporary production that resonates with everyday experiences.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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