Chris Stapleton delivered a show-stopping performance and clinched major accolades at the 58th Annual CMA Awards in Nashville on Wednesday night. The country superstar showcased his versatility by performing three times during the ceremony and taking home the Male Vocalist of the Year award for the fourth consecutive year.
Opening the Show with Post Malone
Stapleton kicked off the night with Post Malone, performing their soulful duet “California Sober.” The collaboration set the tone for an evening filled with heartfelt tributes and stellar musical moments. Their chemistry on stage highlighted Stapleton’s ability to blend his signature country sound with contemporary influences, proving once again why he is one of the genre’s most celebrated artists.
Chris Stapleton Performs Tracks from Higher
Later in the evening, Stapleton performed “What Am I Gonna Do,” the opening track from his critically acclaimed album Higher, which was nominated for Album of the Year. The emotional performance was made even more special by the presence of his wife, Morgane Stapleton, who joined him on stage for the duet.
Higher has been praised for its soulful depth and consistency. Rolling Stone described the album as featuring “the best voice in Nashville” while staying true to Stapleton’s proven formula. The LP’s standout track “White Horse” earned both Song of the Year and Single of the Year honors at the CMAs, cementing its place as one of Stapleton’s most impactful works.
Chris Stapleton Honors George Strait
One of the evening’s most memorable moments was Stapleton’s heartfelt tribute to George Strait, who was honored with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. Stapleton, a longtime admirer of Strait, delivered a moving performance that underscored the country icon’s enduring influence on the genre.
Stapleton’s Male Vocalist of the Year win marked his fourth consecutive victory in the category and his seventh overall, making him the most decorated artist in the award’s history. Competing against heavyweights like Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Morgan Wallen, and reigning Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson, Stapleton’s win reaffirmed his dominance in country music.
A Legacy of Memorable CMA Performances
Stapleton’s presence at the CMA Awards has become a tradition over the years. Last year, he performed “White Horse” from Higher, while the previous year saw him joining Patty Loveless, Darrell Scott, and Morgane Stapleton for a powerful rendition of “You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive.”
This year’s performances, particularly his emotionally charged duet with Morgane, were a testament to his ability to connect deeply with audiences.
Higher: A Winning Formula for Chris Stapleton
Stapleton’s fifth studio album, Higher, continues to solidify his legacy as a country music powerhouse. The album, which also won Album of the Year at the ACM Awards earlier this year, has been lauded for its soulful artistry and emotional depth.
With hit singles like “White Horse” achieving critical and commercial success, Stapleton’s latest work proves that his formula of heartfelt lyrics and unmatched vocals remains as compelling as ever.
