Chris Stapleton took the stage at CMT Giants to honor the legendary Vince Gill with a powerful and emotional performance. The event, filmed on September 12 at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, celebrated Gill’s incredible career with a star-studded lineup.
Stapleton chose to perform “Whenever You Come Around,” a song Gill co-wrote with Pete Wasner from his 1994 album When Love Finds You. Before singing, Stapleton shared a touching message about how Gill inspired him to pursue country music.
“I don’t usually talk much, but they asked if I wanted to say something, and I said, ‘Yeah, I do,’” Stapleton admitted. He went on to express his deep admiration for Gill, revealing that when he moved to Nashville, he aspired to be just like him.
“You always had time to come watch me play or invite me on a songwriter’s round when I had no business being there, and it really made a difference,” Stapleton said. “I love you from the bottom of my heart.”
With Gill watching from the audience, Stapleton delivered a stunning rendition of the song, his signature raspy vocals and raw emotion captivating everyone in the room. At the end of the performance, he tipped his hat to Gill, who responded with a heartfelt thumbs-up and a standing ovation.
Stapleton later shared why he picked the song, calling it one of his longtime favorites. “I used to sing it in bars when nobody was listening,” he said. “It’s a beautifully written song with a melody that makes you feel something, and that’s the mark of a truly great song.”
The CMT Giants: Vince Gill special airs Friday, September 16, at 9/8c, featuring performances by Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Luke Combs, Maren Morris, and more. The two-hour event will also include rare footage, interviews, and a special sit-down with Gill himself as he reflects on his legendary career.
Vince Gill recently celebrated 30 years since the release of his I Still Believe In You album, which produced multiple No. 1 hits and earned him several CMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year.
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