Chris Stapleton and Justin Timberlake team up to perform “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Drink You Away”
The performance of “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Drink You Away” by Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton at the 2015 CMA Awards remains one of the most talked-about moments in recent country music history. This collaboration between Timberlake, a pop and R&B superstar, and Stapleton, a rising star in country music, was a masterclass in blending different musical styles.
The medley began with Stapleton’s rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey,” a classic country ballad originally recorded by David Allan Coe and popularized by George Jones. Stapleton’s version had already garnered significant attention upon its release in 2015, showcasing his deep, soulful voice and emotional depth. The song’s lyrics, which speak to themes of love and redemption, were delivered with such intensity and authenticity that they quickly became a highlight of Stapleton’s career.
Timberlake’s entry into the performance brought a contrasting yet complementary sound. “Drink You Away,” a track from his 2013 album *The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2*, features a bluesy rock vibe that meshed seamlessly with the country elements of “Tennessee Whiskey.” The way Timberlake and Stapleton’s voices intertwined showcased their individual talents while also highlighting their ability to harmonize and blend their styles effectively.
The stage setup for the performance was simple yet impactful, with Timberlake and Stapleton performing against a backdrop that emphasized the raw energy of their collaboration. The arrangement allowed the focus to remain on the powerful vocal delivery and the dynamic interplay between the two artists.
The reaction from both the audience and critics was overwhelmingly positive. The performance was praised for its originality and for bridging the gap between pop and country music, illustrating how artists from different genres can come together to create something truly special. The collaboration was not only a highlight of the CMA Awards but also a significant moment for Stapleton, whose career saw a considerable boost following the event.
Timberlake’s involvement in the performance was particularly noteworthy as it demonstrated his versatility as an artist. Known primarily for his work in pop and R&B, Timberlake’s engagement with country music added a new dimension to his career and showcased his respect and appreciation for different musical traditions.
Chris Stapleton, born in Lexington, Kentucky, had been gaining recognition for his unique blend of country, blues, and soul. His breakout album, *Traveller*, had already set the stage for his rising popularity, and the CMA performance was a pivotal moment that propelled him into the mainstream spotlight.
In the years following this performance, both Timberlake and Stapleton continued to build on their success. Stapleton released additional albums and earned critical acclaim for his songwriting and live performances, while Timberlake continued to explore various musical projects, including his solo work and collaborations with other artists.
Overall, the 2015 CMA Awards performance of “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Drink You Away” remains a memorable example of how powerful and impactful music can be when artists from different genres come together. It stands as a testament to both Timberlake’s and Stapleton’s musical abilities and their contributions to the evolving landscape of contemporary music.
