As of 2024, Chris and Justin’s 2015 CMA duet is still their best

Chris Stapleton’s journey to the forefront of the country music scene began long before his electrifying collaboration with Justin Timberlake at the 2015 CMA Awards. Hailing from Lexington, Kentucky, Stapleton honed his craft as a songwriter, penning hits for notable artists such as Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, and George Strait. His knack for storytelling and his soulful approach to country music quickly garnered attention within the industry, earning him respect as one of Nashville’s most sought-after songsmiths.

Despite his success behind the scenes, Stapleton’s solo career faced initial hurdles. His debut album as a solo artist, “Traveller,” released in 2015, was met with critical acclaim but initially flew under the radar in terms of commercial success. However, all of that changed with his show-stopping performance alongside Justin Timberlake on that fateful night at the CMA Awards.

Timberlake, no stranger to the spotlight himself, brought his signature charisma and musical prowess to the stage, complementing Stapleton’s raw, emotive vocals with his own smooth delivery. The chemistry between the two artists was palpable, igniting a spark that would propel Stapleton into the mainstream spotlight.

Following the CMA Awards performance, “Traveller” experienced a meteoric rise in sales, catapulting it to the top of the charts and earning Stapleton widespread recognition as a solo artist. The album’s title track, along with Stapleton’s soulful rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey,” became anthems for country music fans everywhere, cementing his place as a powerhouse vocalist and a formidable presence in the genre.

But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Stapleton’s rise to fame is the authenticity and honesty that permeates his music. With his trademark beard and rugged charm, Stapleton eschews the glitz and glamour often associated with the Nashville scene, opting instead to let his music speak for itself. His songs are steeped in emotion and rooted in the rich tradition of country storytelling, resonating with listeners on a deep, personal level.

In the years since that unforgettable performance with Timberlake, Stapleton has continued to captivate audiences with his soulful voice and unparalleled songwriting skills. His subsequent albums, including “From A Room: Volume 1” and “From A Room: Volume 2,” have further solidified his status as one of country music’s brightest stars, earning him accolades and awards from the industry and fans alike.

As for Timberlake, his collaboration with Stapleton showcased a different side of the multi-talented artist, proving that his musical prowess extends far beyond the realms of pop and R&B. By seamlessly blending his distinctive style with Stapleton’s country roots, Timberlake demonstrated a versatility and adaptability that few artists possess, earning him newfound respect within the country music community.

In the years since their iconic performance, both Stapleton and Timberlake have continued to push boundaries and defy expectations, forging their own paths in the music industry. And while their collaboration may have been unexpected, its lasting impact serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to transcend genres and unite audiences around the world.