Daughter Glows With Pride As Dad Sings an Incredible Tennessee Whiskey in the Car

David Allan Coe’s “Tennessee Whiskey,” released in 1981, initially gained traction as a country classic. Coe’s version, steeped in traditional country roots, was well-received, but it was Chris Stapleton’s cover that catapulted the song back into the spotlight. When Stapleton included his rendition on his debut album Traveller in 2015, he infused the track with a soulful R&B flavor that introduced it to a new generation of listeners. Stapleton’s version, characterized by his rich, bluesy vocals and emotive delivery, became a defining moment in his career and revitalized interest in the song.

The impact of Stapleton’s cover sparked a social media trend where fans and aspiring musicians began posting their own versions of the song, often using his rendition as a backdrop. Among these covers, a notable example is the 2017 Home Depot carpark performance by Kris Jones. This rendition, recorded in a casual setting, became particularly popular due to its heartfelt presentation and the unique context in which it was performed.

Kris Jones, whose cover was performed as a personal request from his daughter Dayla, demonstrated his vocal skills in a setting that resonated with many viewers. The video, showcasing the bond between father and daughter, quickly captured the public’s attention. The genuine emotion and relatability of the performance contributed to its viral success, with reports indicating that it amassed around 70 million social media views within 14 months.

The popularity of Kris Jones’ video reached a peak when Ellen DeGeneres featured the performance on her show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show. This exposure significantly broadened the reach of the cover, introducing Kris and Dayla Jones to a wider audience. Their appearance on the show further cemented the song’s enduring appeal and showcased the powerful connection between music and personal storytelling.

In addition to the viral success of the Home Depot carpark cover, Kris Jones released an EP in 2018 that included a timeless rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey.” The EP continued to build on the momentum of the viral video, contributing to the ongoing popularity of both the song and Jones’ interpretation. This success underscores how a classic track can be revitalized through contemporary reinterpretations and personal connections.

The resurgence of “Tennessee Whiskey” through Stapleton’s cover and subsequent viral videos highlights the song’s timeless nature and its ability to bridge generations. It also illustrates the profound impact that music can have when it resonates on a personal level, connecting with audiences across different platforms and contexts.