Shelton to be musician coach on 'Voice'

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UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., March 8 (UPI) -- NBC says it has hired country music star Blake Shelton as the fourth musician coach for its U.S. competition series, "The Voice."

The show is to premiere April 26.

Shelton joins previously announced musician coaches Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine.

Shelton's participation in the show was made Monday by Paul Telegdy, executive vice president of alternative programming for NBC and Universal Media Studios.

"We couldn't have a panel that represented the hottest American music without a strong country presence, and Blake is at the top of his game right now," Telegdy said in a statement. "Not only is he incredibly charismatic, but his passion for collaborating with and bringing the best out of other talented artists makes him the perfect choice to round out this 'Dream Team' of musician coaches."

"I'm not sure 'The Voice' knows what they signed on for by bringing me on the show," added Shelton. "I know this for sure: Christina, Cee Lo, Adam and I are going to have a blast and I am extremely excited to be part of a show that recognizes true vocal talent."