Blake Shelton and ‘The Voice’ Ready for Early 2012 Return

All four mentors, including country star Blake Shelton, will jump back into their swivel chairs when 'The Voice' returns to NBC in February 2012. The network already announced the reality show would hold the coveted post-Superbowl time slot on February 5, but just recently revealed that episode would be the Season 2 premiere.

Although minor changes are expected when the show returns -- including more audition episodes -- the concept of the show will remain true to what turned the singing competition into a standout on NBC's recent spring lineup. Zap2it.com reports that after the premiere, 'The Voice' will hold down NBC's Monday at 8 p.m. timeslot beginning on February 6. The show will serve as a lead in to a new musical drama called 'Smash.'

Shelton is currently focused on his music career, though he's finding ways to spend quality time with new-wife Miranda Lambert between tour stops. His album 'Red River Blue' recently debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard album charts, selling over 116,000 copies in the first week. The song 'God Gave Me You' is already a Top 30 hit on country radio, but comes in at No. 21 on the Taste of Country Top 40 for August, 2011.

Watch the Blake Shelton 'Honey Bee' Video