Chris Stapleton’s CMA Night That Changed Everything

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Before 2015, Chris Stapleton was one of Nashville’s best-kept secrets—an incredible songwriter behind hits for other artists, but not yet a household name.

Then came the CMA Awards—and one unforgettable performance.

Stapleton teamed up with Justin Timberlake for a mashup of Tennessee Whiskey and Drink You Away.

It was raw. Soulful. Different from anything else on country radio at the time.

By the end of the night, Stapleton had won multiple awards—and more importantly, he had everyone’s attention.

His album Traveller shot up the charts overnight, and fans across both classic and modern country embraced his bluesy, stripped-down sound.

That moment didn’t just launch a career—it reminded the industry that authenticity and pure vocal power can still cut through everything.

My family went and see Chris Stapleton at the Monument and while the littles played on their phones and napped, us adults sang to the songs and had a great time. While not a high energy concert, a very enjoyable one!