At the prestigious Country Music Awards Wednesday night, a relative unknown stole the spotlight from the awards perennials as Chris Stapleton more or less dominated the ceremony, taking home honors for Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year and New Artist of the Year.
His album, “Traveller,” released back in May, is Stapleton’s solo debut. But Stapleton is well-known in Nashville for his songwriting, having penned songs recorded by George Strait, Kenny Chesney and Luke Bryan. Up until five years ago, Stapleton — who has never had a major hit of his own on country radio — was fronting the bluegrass band the SteelDrivers.
Speaking of Bryan, he was crowned Entertainer of the Year for the second consecutive year.
Other winners included Miranda Lambert, named Female Vocalist of the Year; Little Big Town, winning Song of the Year and Single of the Year (both for “Girl Crush”); and Florida Georgia Line, named Vocal Duo of the Year.
Here’s a taste of Chris Stapleton, from a recent appearance on “Colbert”:
Watched the CMA awards show last night and thoroughly enjoyed it , what great entertainers and Chris Stapleton was so gracious winning he was very good and as usual Carrie Fisher Underwood and Brad Paisley were very enjoyable as hosts of the show. felt sorry Miranda could not enjoy the evening winning female vocalist of the year. what was Blake thinking ?