Yes, this song was released in July of last year. Yes, it peaked at #46 on US Country Airplay. But we’re a sucker for an amazing, well-written song, and for anyone that hasn’t yet heard this gem (or those who have and haven’t put in on lately), we feel it is absolutely worth re-sharing.
Chris Stapleton has long been an established songwriter, having penned #1 hits such as Kenny Chesney’s “Never Wanted Nothing More,” George Strait’s “Love’s Gonna Make It Alright,” Darius Rucker’s “Come Back Song,” and Luke Bryan’s “Drink A Beer.”
Aside from being an incredibly talented as a songwriter, Stapleton is a formidable artist. “What Are You Listening To” is a feat of both songwriting and performance, Stapleton’s soulful vocals conveying the highly emotional lyrics with Ray LaMontagne-esque grace. Lyrically too it’s a masterpiece, opening with the lines “I put that record on / girl, you know what song,” listening to the song he shared with an ex, bringing him to the chorus, “What are you listening to? … Is it something to get you through … Or is it a love song about someone new? / What are you listening to?” The images Stapleton presents are so vivid and poignant, and the presentation is flawless.
Find out more on Stapleton’s website, Facebook, and Twitter.
Crying shame it only peaked at #46. Great writeup for a great song.
Everything from the melody, to the production, to the vocals to the lyrics is perfection.
Yes! Loved this one when I first heard it late last year (sadly, as its run on country radio was already ending).