With his rich, soulful voice and that unmistakable gravelly croon, Chris Stapleton quickly became a mainstay in the country music world—especially after dropping his 2015 solo debut, Traveller. But let’s be clear: Chris Stapleton’s journey to stardom wasn’t an overnight success story. Far from it. Born in Lexington, Kentucky, he grew up surrounded by blue-collar roots—his brother, father, and both grandfathers all worked as coal miners. That kind of upbringing shaped his perspective early on.
Back in 1996, Chris Stapleton tried a different path, heading off to Vanderbilt University to study engineering. He gave college a shot for about a year but soon realized it just wasn’t the right fit. So, he made the decision to return home and pursue what truly called to him: music. Before long, he was playing gigs in the local scene, building connections and honing his craft. One key relationship during this time was with Nashville songwriter Steve Leslie, who helped open doors.
By 2001, Chris Stapleton took a leap of faith and moved to Nashville, determined to make it in the music industry. For years, he worked behind the scenes, writing songs and paying his dues. Then, in 2008, he joined The SteelDrivers—a band that brought him into the spotlight. Their work earned Grammy nominations for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, particularly for tracks like “Blue Side of the Mountain” and “Where Rainbows Never Die.” But Chris Stapleton didn’t stay long; by 2010, he’d moved on to form The Jompson Brothers.
The turning point came in 2013 when Chris Stapleton signed with Mercury Nashville as a solo artist. And then—boom—2015 arrived. His debut album Traveller dropped and instantly resonated with fans and critics alike. Suddenly, Chris Stapleton was everywhere, making memorable appearances on major late-night shows like Late Show with David Letterman (CBS, 1993–2015) and Late Night with Seth Meyers (NBC, 2014–). From there, his star only continued to rise.
When it comes to Chris Stapleton’s creative work, fans often wonder about the highs and lows of his career. Chris Stapleton has made a significant impact not only in music but also through various film and soundtrack contributions. While Chris Stapleton is primarily celebrated as a country music icon, people frequently look into which of his projects have received the most acclaim. As of now, Chris Stapleton’s highest rated music or film-related project stands out due to strong audience and critical reception, showcasing his powerful vocals and songwriting depth. On the flip side, Chris Stapleton’s lowest rated movie, film appearance, or musical release tends to reflect either lesser-known efforts or collaborations that didn’t resonate as widely. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his artistry, exploring both ends of Chris Stapleton’s portfolio gives a fuller picture of his journey. Keep in mind, ratings can vary over time, but Chris Stapleton continues to build a legacy rooted in authenticity and raw talent.