Chris Stapleton Performs ‘What Am I Gonna Do’ at CMA Awards

Chris Stapleton, one of country music’s most influential artists, delivered an unforgettable performance at the 2024 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards. Known for his distinctive voice, soulful lyrics, and genre-defying approach to music, Stapleton has cemented himself as a force to be reckoned with in both the country and broader music industry. At the CMA Awards, he performed his powerful ballad “What Am I Gonna Do,” captivating the audience with his raw emotion and unparalleled musical talent. This article explores the significance of Stapleton’s performance, the impact of “What Am I Gonna Do,” and why Stapleton continues to dominate the music scene with every note he plays.

Chris Stapleton: A Brief Overview

Before delving into the specifics of his CMA Awards performance, it’s important to reflect on who Chris Stapleton is and how he rose to prominence in the music industry. Born on April 15, 1978, in Lexington, Kentucky, Stapleton’s musical journey began in his early years, influenced by bluegrass, southern rock, and country music. His love for music was nurtured by his family, and he began writing songs while studying at Vanderbilt University.

Although Stapleton initially sought a career as a solo artist, his breakthrough came when he became a sought-after songwriter, contributing to hits for artists such as Luke Bryan, Tim McGraw, and George Strait. His songwriting success was evident in the way he captured the essence of country music, blending traditional sounds with a modern twist. However, it was his solo career that ultimately thrust him into the spotlight.

Stapleton’s debut solo album, Traveller (2015), became a massive success, earning multiple Grammy Awards and making him a household name in the country music world. The album’s rich, soulful sound, combined with his raw, gravelly voice, struck a chord with listeners, and he soon became synonymous with authenticity and emotional depth in music. Since then, Stapleton’s career has only soared, with each new album solidifying his place as a leading figure in both country and Americana music.

His musical style spans across various genres, including bluegrass, rock, and soul, with each of his songs telling stories of love, loss, longing, and personal introspection. His ability to convey emotion through his voice and lyrics, combined with his exceptional musicianship, is what makes him stand out in the crowded country music landscape.

The 2024 CMA Awards: A Night of Celebration and Triumph

The CMA Awards are one of the most prestigious events in the country music industry, bringing together the genre’s biggest stars to celebrate its most significant achievements. With performances by top artists, the event honors the best in music from the past year, from songwriters to performers to producers. The 2024 CMA Awards were no exception, offering an evening full of unforgettable moments.

Chris Stapleton’s performance at the CMA Awards was a highlight of the night. As a multi-time nominee and winner at previous CMA Awards, his presence on stage was met with high expectations. His performance of “What Am I Gonna Do,” a song from his latest album, did not disappoint. The emotional depth of the song, coupled with Stapleton’s soulful delivery, made it a standout moment of the night.

Stapleton has long been known for his ability to connect with his audience on a deeply emotional level, and this performance was no different. The song itself is a poignant ballad, reflecting themes of heartache and longing, themes that are familiar to many of Stapleton’s fans. However, it’s Stapleton’s unique ability to bring these emotions to life in such a raw and authentic way that elevates the song beyond just another country ballad.

The Song: “What Am I Gonna Do”

“What Am I Gonna Do” is a song that encapsulates many of the defining elements of Chris Stapleton’s music: it’s soulful, melancholic, and imbued with an undeniable sense of longing. The song explores the emotional turmoil of a person coming to terms with a broken relationship, trying to figure out how to move on while still carrying the weight of love lost. The lyrics, delivered through Stapleton’s signature raspy voice, are both poetic and vulnerable, touching on universal themes of heartbreak and the search for closure.

The song’s structure is simple yet powerful. It opens with a few haunting notes on the guitar, gradually building up as Stapleton’s voice grows more impassioned with each verse. The understated instrumentation allows his voice to take center stage, creating an intimate, personal feel. The minimalism of the arrangement emphasizes the rawness of the lyrics, allowing the listener to feel the vulnerability and pain in Stapleton’s delivery.

Lyrics Analysis

The song’s lyrics speak to anyone who has experienced the anguish of losing someone they loved. The recurring question in the chorus, “What am I gonna do?” is one that resonates deeply with those who find themselves stuck in the limbo of trying to move forward after a painful breakup or loss. The feeling of helplessness and the uncertainty of what comes next are emotions that Stapleton conveys masterfully.

“Doesn’t feel like I’m supposed to be here,” he sings in one of the verses, reflecting the internal struggle of a person who feels lost after the end of something meaningful. The theme of searching for a way forward while still feeling anchored in the past is a universal human experience, making the song deeply relatable to listeners from all walks of life.

Stapleton’s Performance at the CMA Awards: A Masterclass in Emotion and Musicianship

When Chris Stapleton took the stage at the 2024 CMA Awards to perform “What Am I Gonna Do,” he brought a raw intensity that captivated the audience from the very first note. Stapleton is known for his emotionally charged performances, and this one was no exception. As he stood under the spotlight, guitar in hand, there was an undeniable sense of sincerity and authenticity in his delivery.

From the moment he began, it was clear that this was not just another performance—it was an experience. The sincerity of his voice, combined with his humble stage presence, allowed the audience to feel as though they were witnessing a deeply personal moment. Every note he played seemed to echo with the emotions of the song, and his performance was both a testament to his artistry and a display of why he continues to be one of the most revered figures in contemporary music.

The live performance was also a reminder of Stapleton’s incredible musicality. As much as his voice is the focal point of his music, his guitar playing is just as integral to his sound. The delicate strumming on his guitar added a layer of emotion to the performance, enhancing the intimacy of the song. There was an organic quality to the arrangement, with Stapleton’s band providing the perfect sonic backdrop without overshadowing his voice.

Stapleton’s performance was a masterclass in understated beauty. There were no extravagant stage effects or flashy gimmicks—just a man, his guitar, and a song that captured the hearts of all who listened.

The Impact of “What Am I Gonna Do” on Stapleton’s Career

“What Am I Gonna Do” is part of Chris Stapleton’s latest album, Higher, which continues to showcase his growth as an artist while remaining firmly rooted in the soulful, bluesy style that has earned him legions of devoted fans. The song exemplifies Stapleton’s ability to tap into universal emotions and create timeless music that resonates with listeners.

Since his breakthrough in 2015, Stapleton has become known for his mastery of blending traditional country music with elements of soul, blues, and rock. “What Am I Gonna Do” is a prime example of this genre-blending style. While it has the heart of a country ballad, it carries with it the soulfulness of blues and the depth of soul music. This fusion of genres is what makes Stapleton’s music so unique and widely appealing.

The song has been met with widespread critical acclaim and has garnered a great deal of attention, particularly following his emotional performance at the CMA Awards. It’s clear that “What Am I Gonna Do” is poised to become one of the defining tracks of Stapleton’s career. As Stapleton continues to make his mark on the music world, this song will likely be remembered as one of his most powerful and poignant works.

Stapleton’s Influence on Modern Country Music

Chris Stapleton’s rise to fame has been nothing short of transformative for the country music landscape. His blend of traditional country elements with blues, rock, and soul has helped redefine what modern country music can sound like. Stapleton’s success has also paved the way for other artists who are pushing the boundaries of the genre.

In a time when much of mainstream country music has veered towards a more pop-oriented sound, Stapleton has remained steadfast in his commitment to authenticity. His music speaks to the heart of country music’s roots, with its focus on storytelling, emotional depth, and musical craftsmanship.

In addition to his own work, Stapleton has influenced countless artists who admire his ability to blend genres and create music that speaks to a wide audience. His success has proven that there is still a place for authenticity and raw emotion in an industry that often prioritizes commercial success.

Chris Stapleton’s performance of “What Am I Gonna Do” at the 2024 CMA Awards was a powerful reminder of his incredible talent and emotional depth as an artist. The performance, paired with the poignant lyrics of the song, showcased why Stapleton continues to be one of the most respected figures in country music today.

As his career progresses, it’s clear that Stapleton’s ability to convey raw emotion through both his voice and songwriting will continue to define his legacy. His performance at the CMA Awards was a beautiful reminder of why he’s become such an influential figure in the music world, and why his songs continue to resonate