Chris Stapleton is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his powerful voice, soulful blend of country, blues, and rock music, and prolific songwriting. Born on April 15, 1978, in Lexington, Kentucky, Stapleton began his music career as a songwriter, penning hits for artists like Kenny Chesney, George Strait, and Luke Bryan.
Stapleton gained widespread recognition as a solo artist with the release of his debut album, “Traveller,” in 2015. The album received critical acclaim and commercial success, winning several Grammy Awards, including Best Country Album. Stapleton’s music is characterized by his raw vocals, poignant lyrics, and authentic storytelling, reflecting influences from classic country and Southern rock.
Throughout his career, Chris Stapleton has continued to release acclaimed albums such as “From A Room: Volume 1” (2017) and “From A Room: Volume 2” (2017), solidifying his reputation as one of country music’s most distinctive and respected artists.
1. Either Way
“Either Way” is a song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his debut studio album “Traveller,” released in 2015. Written by Stapleton along with Tim James and Kendall Marvel, “Either Way” is a poignant ballad that showcases Stapleton’s emotive vocal delivery and introspective songwriting style. The song explores themes of heartache, regret, and emotional vulnerability, with lyrics that reflect on the complexities of relationships and personal struggles. “Either Way” received critical acclaim for its authenticity and raw emotion, solidifying Stapleton’s reputation as a powerful storyteller and one of the leading voices in modern country music.
2. Midnight Train to Memphis
“Midnight Train to Memphis” is a song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his debut studio album “Traveller,” released in 2015. Written by Stapleton along with Mike Henderson, the song blends elements of country, blues, and rock, characteristic of Stapleton’s musical style. “Midnight Train to Memphis” is an upbeat track that tells a narrative of leaving town in pursuit of redemption and a fresh start. Stapleton’s gritty vocals and the song’s energetic instrumentation create a dynamic and engaging listening experience, showcasing his ability to blend traditional country roots with contemporary influences. The song has been praised for its authenticity and compelling storytelling, further establishing Stapleton as a standout artist in modern country music.
3. Fire Away
“Fire Away” is a song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his album “Traveller,” released in 2015. Written by Stapleton along with Danny Green, the song is a soulful ballad that explores themes of love, devotion, and emotional resilience. “Fire Away” showcases Stapleton’s powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery, accompanied by a melodic arrangement that blends elements of country, rock, and soul music. The song’s lyrics delve into the challenges and sacrifices of a troubled relationship, urging the listener to stand by their partner through difficult times. “Fire Away” has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity, highlighting Stapleton’s ability to connect with audiences through his heartfelt storytelling and musical craftsmanship.
4. Millionaire
“Millionaire” is a song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his album “From A Room: Volume 2,” released in 2017. Written by Kevin Welch and performed by Stapleton, the song is a heartfelt ballad that reflects on the simple joys of life and love. It features Stapleton’s soulful vocals and acoustic guitar, accompanied by a stripped-down arrangement that emphasizes the song’s intimate and reflective lyrics. “Millionaire” expresses gratitude for life’s blessings and the richness found in personal connections rather than material wealth. The song resonates with listeners for its sincerity and emotional resonance, showcasing Stapleton’s ability to deliver poignant and heartfelt songs with authenticity.
5. Starting Over
“Starting Over” is a song by Chris Stapleton, released in 2020 as the title track and lead single from his album “Starting Over.” Known for his soulful voice and blend of country, rock, and blues influences, Stapleton’s song reflects themes of resilience, renewal, and embarking on a new chapter in life. The lyrics convey a sense of hope and determination after overcoming challenges, with Stapleton’s emotive delivery adding depth to the song’s introspective tone. “Starting Over” showcases Stapleton’s songwriting prowess and musical versatility, resonating with listeners for its sincerity and relatable themes of personal growth and second chances.
6. Broken Halos
“Broken Halos” is a song by Chris Stapleton, released in 2017 as a single from his album “From A Room: Volume 1.” It’s a heartfelt country ballad that reflects on loss, redemption, and the search for meaning in life’s struggles. Stapleton’s soulful vocals and evocative lyrics convey a sense of longing and reflection, exploring themes of mortality and the hope for spiritual healing. The song’s gentle melody and acoustic instrumentation complement its poignant lyrics, making “Broken Halos” a standout track in Stapleton’s discography. It received critical acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 2018, cementing its place as a powerful and moving country ballad.
7. Traveller
“Traveller” is the title track and lead single from Chris Stapleton’s debut studio album, released in 2015. Written by Stapleton along with songwriter and producer Dave Cobb, “Traveller” is a reflective song that embodies themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the journey through life’s challenges. The song features Stapleton’s powerful vocals, accompanied by a blend of country, blues, and rock instrumentation that showcases his distinctive musical style. “Traveller” received critical acclaim for its authenticity and storytelling, serving as a fitting introduction to Stapleton’s career as a solo artist and earning him widespread recognition in the country music scene.
8. Nobody to Blame
“Nobody to Blame” is a song by Chris Stapleton, released in 2015 as a single from his debut album “Traveller.” The song blends elements of country rock and blues, showcasing Stapleton’s soulful vocals and storytelling abilities. Its lyrics delve into themes of heartbreak, regret, and personal accountability, as the narrator reflects on the consequences of his actions and acknowledges his role in a failed relationship. “Nobody to Blame” is known for its raw emotion and introspective lyrics, capturing Stapleton’s ability to convey genuine emotion through his music. It received positive reviews from critics and contributed to his rise as a prominent figure in contemporary country music.
9. Parachute
“Parachute” is a song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his album “Traveller,” released in 2015. Written by Stapleton along with Jim Beavers and Rodney Clawson, “Parachute” is a soulful country ballad that explores themes of love, trust, and commitment. The song showcases Stapleton’s rich, emotive vocals and heartfelt delivery, accompanied by a melodic arrangement that blends traditional country with contemporary elements. “Parachute” has been praised for its lyrical depth and musical craftsmanship, becoming a fan favorite and highlighting Stapleton’s ability to convey raw emotion and storytelling prowess through his music.
10. Tennessee Whiskey
“Tennessee Whiskey” is a soulful country song famously covered by Chris Stapleton, released in 2015 as part of his debut album “Traveller.” Originally written by Dean Dillon and Linda Hargrove, the song was first recorded by David Allan Coe in 1981. Stapleton’s rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey” became highly acclaimed for its bluesy, soul-infused interpretation, showcasing his powerful vocals and emotional delivery. The song’s lyrics metaphorically compare the depth of a romantic relationship to the smoothness and richness of Tennessee whiskey, making it a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions. Stapleton’s version of “Tennessee Whiskey” has been widely praised for revitalizing interest in traditional country music and becoming a modern classic in the genre.