CBS Series ‘The Road’ EP Mimics Real Music Industry: ‘The Prize Is Yours’
The CBS series, “The Road,” offers a unique glimpse into the realities of the music industry, distinguishing itself from typical music competition shows. Executive producer Lee Metzger aimed to redefine the genre by collaborating with talent like Blake Shelton and Taylor Sheridan to create a format focused on real career development.
The Concept Behind ‘The Prize Is Yours’
Unlike other shows that focus on instant fame, “The Road” emphasizes building sustainable careers for aspiring musicians. Metzger explained that the objective is not to produce temporary stars but to nurture genuine talent that has been honed through live performances.
- 12 artists performing in bars across the country.
- Opening for popular country singer Keith Urban.
- Emphasis on original music as a hallmark of the competition.
Casting and Performances
The series has handpicked artists, many in their 30s with considerable live performance experience. Each contestant is required to showcase their original music, with the first episode featuring a performance from Fort Worth, Texas.
Moving forward, each episode includes a performance of both a cover and an original song to introduce the artists’ styles to the audience.
Production Quality and Audience Engagement
With the partnership of Sheridan, the show benefits from enhanced production quality, lending a concert-like atmosphere to each episode. The audience experiences real-time reactions during performances, enhancing viewer engagement.
Voting is audience-driven, with viewers selecting their favorite performers. Shelton and Urban play critical roles, giving feedback and deciding which contestants will be eliminated without traditional critiques.
Real-World Experience for Contestants
“The Road” aims to simulate a true concert experience by removing the judges from the direct sightlines of the artists. This decision allows singers to focus on their performances rather than the pressure of facing celebrities.
The exposure gained from participating is seen as invaluable, with Metzger noting that the journey on the show offers real-world experience and opportunities for contestants.
Grand Prize and Opportunities
The winner of “The Road” can look forward to an impressive prize package, which includes:
- $250,000 cash
- A recording contract
- A Red Bull prize package
- A performance slot at Stagecoach Country Music Festival
According to Metzger, however, the journey and exposure are already rewards for the contestants, making them the opening acts for Keith Urban right from the start.
New episodes of “The Road” air weekly on CBS on Sunday nights, presenting a fresh perspective on what it means to navigate the competitive landscape of the music industry.
