Chris Stapleton’s Heartfelt Tribute: Unveiling the Devastating Loss Backstage at the 2023 CMA Awards
When Chris Stapleton graciously accepted the prestigious Male Vocalist of the Year trophy at the 2023 CMA Awards on November 8, he took a poignant moment to remember two individuals who held significant roles in his life and career.
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A Tribute to Mike Henderson
The first name mentioned by Stapleton was Mike Henderson, a founding member of the SteelDrivers and a long-time collaborator with Stapleton on some of his most impactful hit songs. Henderson passed away in September at the age of 70, leaving a void in Stapleton’s musical journey.
Remembering Eric Burrows
The second, lesser-known individual honored on stage was Eric Burrows, a dedicated bodyguard who served as Stapleton’s director of security from 2016 until late 2021. Burrows, who had also provided security for celebrities like Justin Timberlake and Celine Dion, tragically passed away on November 6 while working in Europe. His unexpected demise shocked the country music community.
More Than an Employee: A Family Friend
Backstage after the awards ceremony, Stapleton shared heartfelt sentiments about Burrows, highlighting that he was more than just an employee—he was a close family friend. Stapleton recalled how Burrows toured with the family, taking care of their security on the road.
"The kids loved him dearly. We loved him dearly. He was a wonderful man," expressed Stapleton.
Recognition Amidst Achievements
Despite the somber moments, Chris Stapleton’s night at the CMA Awards was one of recognition and musical triumph. Winning the Male Vocalist of the Year category, he also delivered a soul-stirring solo performance and shared the stage with Carly Pearce to perform their duet, "We Don’t Fight Anymore."
CMA Awards in a Snapshot
The 2023 CMA Awards, hosted by Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, unfolded at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Nominees in the coveted Entertainer of the Year category included Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, and Morgan Wallen.
For a glimpse of the glamour on the red carpet and the memorable moments on stage, check out the 2023 CMA Awards Red Carpet Pictures.
In a night filled with celebration and talent, Chris Stapleton’s poignant tribute backstage served as a reminder of the personal losses that often accompany the glittering world of awards and recognition.
Behind the Scenes: Exploring Themed Questions Surrounding Chris Stapleton’s Devastating Loss Backstage at the CMA Awards
What did Chris Stapleton win at the 2021 CMA Awards?
At the 55th annual CMA Awards on November 10, 2021, held at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Chris Stapleton achieved a remarkable feat by clinching several prestigious awards:
- Male Vocalist of the Year: Recognized for his outstanding vocal prowess.
- Album of the Year: Honored for his exceptional contribution to the music industry.
- Single of the Year: Acknowledged for a standout single that captivated audiences.
- Song of the Year: Celebrated for a composition that left a lasting impact.
In addition to these four wins, Stapleton also secured two more awards, making it a memorable and triumphant night for the talented artist. The evening marked a culmination of big emotions for many winners, showcasing Stapleton’s significant achievements in the country music realm.
Who is Chris Stapleton?
Chris Stapleton, a renowned figure in the music industry, secured the top honor at the Academy of Country Music Awards on May 11. Named "Entertainer of the Year," this achievement marked Stapleton’s first in his illustrious career. Since his breakthrough in 2015, Stapleton has consistently proven himself as a reliable and celebrated winner at awards shows. His notable contributions to country music have solidified his status as a dependable bet in the realm of accolades and recognition.
John Shearer/Getty Images
Did Chris Stapleton win ACM Entertainer of the Year?
Yes, Chris Stapleton achieved a significant milestone by winning "Entertainer of the Year" for the first time at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards. The prestigious event took place at the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas, with the hosting duties shared by the legendary Garth Brooks and Dolly Parton—both past ACM Entertainer of the Year winners. This victory marked Stapleton’s fifth nomination in this esteemed category, solidifying his position as a standout figure in the country music landscape.
Image: Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas
Did you miss a special Super Bowl 2023 behind-the-scenes moment between Chris Stapleton?
While the curtains closed on Super Bowl 2023, showcasing numerous high-stakes moments, an exclusive behind-the-scenes interaction between Chris Stapleton and one of music’s most renowned artists unfolded on social media. For those who may have overlooked this special moment, the post-game buzz revealed a unique and noteworthy encounter that added an extra layer of intrigue to the Super Bowl night.
Image: Super Bowl 2023
Why is Chris Stapleton so famous?
Chris Stapleton’s fame skyrocketed following a captivating performance alongside pop star Justin Timberlake at the 2015 Country Music Association Awards. This memorable collaboration not only showcased Stapleton’s musical prowess but also garnered significant attention and acclaim. The turning point in his career continued as he clinched all three CMA awards for which he was nominated that year: Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, and New Artist of the Year. This remarkable achievement solidified Stapleton’s status as a prominent figure in the music industry, contributing to his widespread recognition and fame.
Image: Chris Stapleton and Justin Timberlake at the 2015 CMA Awards
Who is married to Chris Stapleton?
Chris Stapleton’s wife is Morgane Stapleton (née Hayes), an accomplished American singer-songwriter born on January 25, 1983. Together, they form a notable musical and personal partnership, with Morgane contributing to the dynamic and creative landscape of Chris Stapleton’s successful career.
Image: Chris and Morgane Stapleton
