On January 12, 2026, Chris Stapleton did something that Johnny Cash and George Strait never managed to do. His song ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ moved 20 million units in the United States.
That is called Double Diamond. It has only happened to three songs in the history of music. This makes him the new king of a mountain that no one else has climbed yet.
Chris stepped onto the stage at the 2015 CMA Awards. He was not alone because he brought a pop star named Justin Timberlake with him. Most people expected a typical country tune but they got a dose of pure soul instead.
Chris Stapleton, Justin Timberlake – Tennessee Whiskey / Drink You Away | CMA Awards 2015
People who watched it live still talk about how their skin tingled during the high notes. One viewer said that this was the exact moment country music found its soul again. Another fan mentioned that they watch this every single week just to feel that spark of magic.
That big night changed everything for Chris and turned him into a household name overnight. But a flashy stage with bright lights is not the only place where he shines bright. He took that song to smaller stages where the grit in his voice could really breathe.
Chris Stapleton – Tennessee Whiskey (Live at Austin City Limits Performance)
When he stands there with just a guitar the world seems to get very quiet. This performance at Austin City Limits proves why he is a vocal titan. There is a strength in his calmness that makes the audience sit still.
Chris Stapleton is a rare breed of artist who stays true to himself even when the world is watching. His journey from a quiet songwriter to a Double Diamond king is a story for the ages.
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