Tennessee Whiskey’ Reborn: Stapleton’s Austin City Limits Legacy

Chris Stapleton’s 2017 Austin City Limits performance of “Tennessee Whiskey” was a career-defining moment, spotlighting his raw vocal power and soul-stirring emotion.

Riding the wave of his debut album Traveller and its sequel From A Room: Volume 1, Stapleton breathed fresh life into a song first cut by David Allan Coe and later made famous by George Jones. His take? A bold, blues-drenched reimagining that cemented his place in modern music.

At Austin City Limits, “Tennessee Whiskey” unfolded with a slow, sultry guitar lick that hooked the audience from the start. Then came Stapleton’s voice—gritty, yearning, and brimming with soul—turning lyrics about love’s intoxication into something you could feel in your bones.

His version doesn’t just cover the original; it transforms it, blending country roots with a bluesy edge that’s unmistakably his own.

Stapleton’s journey to this stage was years in the making. Born in Kentucky in 1978, he landed in Nashville with big dreams and a knack for songwriting.

Before going solo, he penned hits for stars like Luke Bryan and Kenny Chesney, honing a sound steeped in country and blues traditions. That groundwork paid off—by 2017, he wasn’t just a writer anymore, but a performer who could stop you in your tracks.

What makes this rendition unforgettable is Stapleton’s connection with the crowd. He takes a classic and makes it personal, delivering every note with an authenticity that resonates.

That Austin City Limits stage showcased a song reborn—reigniting its legacy for new fans while honoring its past. It’s Stapleton at his best: real, heartfelt, and unafraid to dig deep.

His career thrives on that same honesty. From live shows to studio cuts, Stapleton’s music hits hard because it feels true. The “Tennessee Whiskey” performance is proof of his gift—a moment that echoes through country and blues, leaving a mark that’s tough to shake.

To compare Stapleton’s Austin Limits performance of “Tennessee Whiskey” to the studio version watch the official video below:

If you want more music and videos from Chris Stapleton, check out his YouTube Channel. Fans can also connect with him on Instagram and Facebook. Get news, updates, and tour info on his official website.