Post Malone once believed that Blake Shelton’s debut hit “Austin” was written about him. Now, the two stars have teamed up for a song together, and Malone recently shared his childhood misconception with Shelton.
“Post’s real name is Austin, and he told me that when he was a kid, his mom told him that song was written about him,” Shelton told American Songwriter. “He said he believed it. His mom was the country music fan, and his dad was the rock guy. So, I guess that’s how Post Malone was created.”
Malone, born Austin Richard Post, and Shelton collaborated on their new track, “Pour Me a Drink,” featured on Malone’s debut country album, F-1 Trillion. The album, releasing on August 16, also includes collaborations with Brad Paisley, Morgan Wallen, Dolly Parton, and Tim McGraw.
Malone co-wrote “Pour Me a Drink” with producers Louis Bell and Charlie Handsome, along with John Byron, Rocky Block, and Jordan Dozzi. The song’s alcohol-fueled anthem fits seamlessly with Shelton’s style, leading Shelton to joke, “I think he’s getting my songs now.”
Shelton praised Malone’s talent and enthusiasm for country music. “We spent about three days together since this thing’s been going on, and those days have been unbelievable,” Shelton said. “I’m proud of that record. I’m proud to have worked with him. He’s incredibly talented and just so much fun to be around.”
Malone played Shelton several songs from F-1 Trillion, along with some George Strait and Asleep at the Wheel tracks. Shelton noted Malone’s deep-rooted love for country music, stemming from his Texas upbringing.
“This guy grew up in Texas,” Shelton said. “I think just naturally he grew up hearing all this stuff, and he’s just super excited about country music. I think he probably feels like a new artist again.”
Shelton theorized that Malone always wanted to make country music but took a different path initially. “Now he’s doing it, and you can tell he’s been holding it in for a while, and he’s super fired up about it,” Shelton added.
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