“WITHOUT A SINGLE LIGHT OR SOUND EFFECT, CHRIS STAPLETON TORE THROUGH THE CMA STAGE WITH A RAW, SOUL-PIERCING ‘BAD AS I USED TO BE’ PERFORMANCE THAT LEFT THE CROWD SILENT, SHAKEN, AND THEN ON THEIR FEET IN THUNDEROUS APPLAUSE”! It wasn’t just the performance of the night — it was a seismic moment that stopped the CMA Awards 2025 cold. Chris Stapleton walked onto the stage with nothing but his guitar and a voice dripping with raw, gritty soul. No flashy production, no gimmicks — just pure, unfiltered talent that shook the walls and rattled hearts. From the very first note of “Bad As I Used To Be,” the energy hit like an electric shock, sending chills racing through the crowd. Every lyric was soaked in pain and passion, every guitar solo cut through the silence like a lightning bolt. The audience, stunned into stillness, erupted into a standing ovation that felt like it could last forever — a powerful testament to a man who commands a stage with nothing but his music and heart. And through it all, the quick, tender glances he shared with his wife reminded everyone that behind the raw power is a deeply human story — one of love, strength, and unbreakable spirit. Chris Stapleton didn’t just perform — he owned that moment, proving once again why he stands alone at the very top of his craft. 👇 Watch the breathtaking, soul-stirring performance below 👇
Earlier this year, Chris Stapleton contributed “Bad As I Used to Be” to F1: The Album. The song dropped as a promotional single from the soundtrack, marking the singer/songwriter’s first solo release since his 2023 album. The blues-leaning rocker worked well on the big screen, but it was seemingly made for a live audience.
Likewise, his appearance on the album proves that he can fit in anywhere. The soundtrack includes tracks from Doja Cat, Burna Boy, Roddy Ricch, Darkoo, and many more. Still, “Bad As I Used to Be” manages to sound right at home in the tracklist. However, fans will surely agree that Stapleton and this bluesy gem were right where they belonged this evening–standing in front of countless country music fans during the genre’s biggest night.
With bright lights, a full band, and the unrestrained power of his vocals, Stapleton raised the bar for performances early in the show. Everyone who has taken the stage so far has been on their A-game, to be sure. However, he stole the show with his energy, big riffs, and a pair of ripping guitar solos.
Chris Stapleton Could Make CMA Awards History
Chris Stapleton could break a record during tonight’s CMA Awards broadcast. He is tied with Brooks & Dunn for the act with the most CMA Award wins at 19. Tonight, Stapleton is up for three trophies. B&D are in the running for Vocal Duo of the Year. As a result, one of them could break the tie tonight.
Brooks & Dunn have taken home Vocal Duo of the Year at the CMA Awards 15 times out of 24 nominations. At the same time, the country music world’s nostalgic love of all things ’90s country helps the veteran duo’s already solid chances of taking home another win.
Stapleton is up for Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Music Video of the Year for “Think I’m in Love with You.” He currently holds the record for the most Male Vocalist of the Year wins with eight. He could widen the gap and set a new record with that win. Additionally, it would be his fifth consecutive win in a category, which would put him in a three-way tie for the record with Blake Shelton and Vince Gill.
