Blake Sheltonis one of the most connected musicians in the industry.

So how did BlakeSheltonand Joe Nichols actually cross paths?

Or, as they like to put it, “the ‘Artist Protection Program,'” Nichols joked.

Joe Nichols and Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton found success before Nichols, but that didn’t bother the singer.

“I’m proud it’s just exploded for him.

“We’ve got a lot of voices, and a severe lack of personalities,” he said.

Joe Nichols on the red carpet

“But he’s one of those guys whose personalities you’ve gotta like!”

Unsurprisingly, Shelton speaks very highly of his fellow musician.

Shelton is also one for reminiscing, posting a throwback snap of he and Nichols back in the ’90s.

Blake Shelton at press event

“So crazy how it’s already 25 years or more later.”