The 10 best Chris Stapleton songs of all time

Chris Stapleton is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his powerful voice, soulful songwriting, and blend of country, rock, and blues influences. Born on April 15, 1978, in Lexington, Kentucky, Stapleton initially gained recognition as a songwriter by penning hits for artists such as Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, and Adele.

In 2015, Stapleton released his debut solo album, Traveller, which was a huge success both critically and at the box office. The album’s raw and soulful sound earned Stapleton critical acclaim and it won the Grammy Award for Best Country Album. Stapleton’s debut single, “Nobody to Blame,” also garnered widespread attention and established him as a solo artist.

Stapleton continued to build on his success with subsequent albums, including From A Room: Volume 1 (2017) and From A Room: Volume 2 (2017), both of which topped the Billboard Country Albums chart. His music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak and redemption, delivered in his distinctively raw and soulful voice.

Throughout his career, Stapleton has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and Country Music Association Awards. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and authentic voices in contemporary country music, and his music resonates with listeners of all genres.

1. Either way

“Either Way” is a poignant country song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his 2015 debut solo album, Traveller. The song features Stapleton’s powerful and soulful vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar and subtle instrumentation. “Either Way” is a heartbreaking ballad that explores the complexities of love and relationships. The lyrics describe the raw emotions of heartbreak and uncertainty as the protagonist wrestles with the decision to stay in or leave a troubled relationship. Stapleton’s soulful delivery and honest style of storytelling captivate listeners, making “Either Way” a standout track on the album and highlighting his skill as a songwriter and singer.

2. Midnight Train to Memphis

“Midnight Train to Memphis” is a song by American singer-songwriter Chris Stapleton, featured on his 2015 debut studio album, Traveller. The song blends elements of country, blues and rock and showcases Stapleton’s powerful vocals and raw, soulful style.

“Midnight Train to Memphis” tells the story of a man who leaves town on a midnight train after a difficult past and a brush with the law. The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of longing and redemption, with Stapleton’s soulful performance adding even more emotional depth to the song.

Musically, “Midnight Train to Memphis” features a bluesy guitar riff and a driving rhythm section that create a raw, earthy sound that complements Stapleton’s vocals. The song’s arrangement highlights Stapleton’s skills as a musician and songwriter, setting the stage for his critically acclaimed career in country music.

“Midnight Train to Memphis” was praised for its authenticity and emotional resonance and cemented Chris Stapleton’s reputation as one of country music’s most compelling artists.

3. Fire at will

“Fire Away” is a soulful country song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his 2015 album, Traveller. The song features Stapleton’s soulful vocals and raw lyricism, accompanied by a stirring melody and subtle instrumentation. “Fire Away” deals with themes of love, pain, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The lyrics describe a relationship plagued by struggles and hardships, yet the protagonist remains committed and willing to endure anything for his partner. Stapleton’s passionate delivery and heartfelt sincerity give the song a special touch, resonating with listeners and showcasing his talent for telling stories through music. “Fire Away” has become a fan favorite and a testament to Stapleton’s prowess as a singer-songwriter in the country music genre.

4. Millionaire

“Millionaire” is a song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his 2015 debut studio album, Traveller. The song is a bluesy country track that showcases Stapleton’s soulful vocals and songwriting skills.

In “Millionaire,” Stapleton sings about finding true wealth and satisfaction in love, not material possessions. The lyrics convey a message of gratitude for the simple pleasures in life, with Stapleton expressing that he feels like a millionaire when he is with his loved one.

Musically, “Millionaire” features a stripped-down arrangement with acoustic guitar and understated instrumentation, allowing Stapleton’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s melody is catchy and memorable, making it a standout track on the album.

“Millionaire” was praised for its soulful lyrics and Stapleton’s emotional delivery, cementing his reputation as one of country music’s most talented and authentic artists.

5. New beginning

“Starting Over” is the title track of Chris Stapleton’s fourth studio album, released in 2020. The song is a soulful ballad that reflects on new beginnings and second chances in life and love. With its soulful melody and Stapleton’s soulful vocals, “Starting Over” captures the hope and optimism of starting a new chapter after challenges and setbacks. The lyrics express a sense of renewal and determination to keep going, accompanied by acoustic guitar and soft instrumentation that emphasize the emotional depth of the song. “Starting Over” was well received by audiences, becoming a standout track on the album and cementing Stapleton’s reputation as one of country music’s most compelling storytellers.

6. Broken halos

“Broken Halos” is a song by Chris Stapleton, released in 2017 as the first single from his album “From A Room: Volume 1”. The song is an emotional ballad that reflects on loss, redemption, and the search for meaning in life.

In “Broken Halos,” Stapleton sings about how life’s struggles and hardships can lead to brokenness and pain, but he also finds hope in the idea that there are “angels” among us to guide and protect us. The lyrics are poignant and introspective, and Stapleton’s soulful vocals add depth and emotion to the message.

Musically, “Broken Halos” is a country ballad with a stripped-down arrangement that showcases Stapleton’s vocals. The song features acoustic guitar, subtle percussion, and understated instrumentation that complement the lyrics and mood of the song.

“Broken Halos” was praised for its honest and heartfelt lyrics as well as Stapleton’s powerful performance. The song won the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Country Song, cementing Stapleton’s reputation as one of country music’s most respected artists.

7. Traveler

“Traveller” is the title track from Chris Stapleton’s 2015 debut studio album. The song serves as the opening track and sets the tone for the rest of the album, which has been widely praised for its mix of country, blues and rock influences.

In “Traveller,” Stapleton reflects on his life as a traveler, moving from place to place, searching for meaning and purpose. The lyrics touch on themes of self-discovery, redemption, and the journey of life itself.

Musically, “Traveller” features Stapleton’s soulful vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar and a simple yet effective arrangement. The song’s stripped-down production allows Stapleton’s voice to take center stage, highlighting his vocal range and emotional delivery.

Traveler received critical acclaim and helped establish Stapleton as one of the major forces in country music. The album won several awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Country Album, and the title track remains one of Stapleton’s most popular and enduring songs.

8. Nobody is to blame

“Nobody to Blame” is a country song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his 2015 debut solo album, Traveller. The track features Stapleton’s soulful vocals and traditional country instrumentation. “Nobody to Blame” is a thoughtful song that deals with themes of regret, heartbreak, and personal responsibility after a failed relationship. The lyrics describe a man wrestling with the consequences of his actions and taking responsibility for the pain he has caused. Stapleton’s powerful delivery and authentic storytelling resonate with listeners, making “Nobody to Blame” a standout track on the album and showcasing his talent as a singer and songwriter in the country music genre.

9. Parachute

“Parachute” is a song by Chris Stapleton, featured on his 2017 second studio album, From A Room: Volume 1. The song is a bluesy country track that showcases Stapleton’s powerful vocals and talent as a storyteller.

In “Parachute,” Stapleton sings about being there for someone going through a difficult time and serving as a metaphorical parachute to help them land safely. The lyrics convey a message of support and reassurance, with Stapleton’s soulful delivery adding to the emotional depth of the song.

Musically, “Parachute” features a bluesy guitar riff and a driving rhythm section that create a raw, primal sound that complements Stapleton’s vocals. The song’s arrangement is relatively stripped down, allowing Stapleton’s voice to take center stage.

Praised for its soulful lyrics and Stapleton’s authentic performance, “Parachute” cemented his reputation as one of country music’s most talented and authentic artists.

10. Tennessee Whiskey

“Tennessee Whiskey” is a country song covered by Chris Stapleton on his 2015 debut solo album, Traveller. Originally written by Dean Dillon and Linda Hargrove, the song was first recorded by David Allan Coe in 1981. However, Stapleton’s rendition gained widespread acclaim and commercial success, becoming one of his signature songs.

Stapleton’s version of “Tennessee Whiskey” features powerful and soulful vocals accompanied by a bluesy melody and rich instrumentation. The lyrics compare the narrator’s love for his partner to the smoothness and depth of Tennessee whiskey, capturing the intoxicating allure of a deep and passionate connection.

Stapleton’s rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey” garnered widespread praise for its authenticity and emotional resonance, earning him several awards and nominations, including a Grammy Award for Best Country Solo Performance. The song’s success cemented Stapleton’s reputation as one of country music’s most compelling artists and exposed him to a wider audience outside the genre.

Edward Tomlin is a regular contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.