Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton collaborate on a medley of “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Drink You Away”

The performance by Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton at the 2015 CMA Awards, featuring a medley of “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Drink You Away,” is widely celebrated as one of the most iconic moments in recent Country Music Association history. This extraordinary collaboration blended Timberlake’s pop sensibilities with Stapleton’s soulful country style, creating a dynamic and memorable musical experience.

The medley began with Stapleton’s rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey,” a classic country song originally recorded by David Allan Coe in 1981 and popularized by George Jones in 1983. Stapleton’s version, released in 2015, brought a fresh and soulful interpretation to the beloved track. His deep, resonant voice, combined with his bluesy guitar playing, captured the essence of the song and showcased his remarkable vocal range and emotional depth.

As the performance transitioned to Timberlake’s “Drink You Away,” the shift from classic country to modern pop-rock was seamless. “Drink You Away,” a track from Timberlake’s 2013 album *The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2*, features a blend of pop and blues influences that complement the country roots of “Tennessee Whiskey.” Timberlake’s smooth, versatile vocals and energetic stage presence provided a contemporary edge to the performance, contrasting beautifully with Stapleton’s traditional country sound.

The chemistry between Timberlake and Stapleton was palpable, as they exchanged vocal leads and harmonized with remarkable synergy. Timberlake’s background in pop and R&B, coupled with Stapleton’s deep country roots, created a captivating fusion of genres. The performance not only highlighted their individual talents but also demonstrated their ability to merge different musical styles into a cohesive and engaging live experience.

The 2015 CMA performance was met with widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. It was praised for its innovative pairing and the way it bridged the gap between country and pop music. The impact of the performance was significant, contributing to Stapleton’s rapid rise in the country music scene. Following the CMA Awards, Stapleton’s career experienced a substantial boost, with increased recognition and success resulting from the exposure and acclaim garnered from this performance.

The collaboration between Timberlake and Stapleton was not just a moment of musical excellence; it was a testament to the power of cross-genre collaborations and the way they can bring new audiences to different styles of music. The performance exemplified how artists from varied musical backgrounds can come together to create something unique and memorable.

In the years following the CMA performance, both Timberlake and Stapleton continued to build on their respective successes. Timberlake’s exploration of different musical styles and Stapleton’s continued evolution as a country artist further demonstrated their versatility and commitment to their craft. The performance remains a standout moment in CMA history, celebrated for its innovative approach and the impressive talent of both artists.

Overall, the 2015 CMA Awards medley of “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Drink You Away” is remembered as a groundbreaking and unforgettable musical event. It showcased the exceptional vocal abilities and artistic synergy of Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton, leaving a lasting impression on the world of country music and beyond.