If Chris Stapleton has a setlist staple for the road, “Tennessee Whiskey” is the song he plays every show. Recorded first in 1981 by David Allan Cole, then again in 1983 by George Jones, the song was taken to # 77 and # 2 respectively, Chris added a blues edge to it and recorded it for his Traveller album in 2015. At a gig in Virginia, the guys were jamming while they were waiting for equipment to be set up. Chris started singing Tennessee Whiskey over the jam session and they wound up playing it during their set and at every show since. The song itself is about a man who has that special something that gives him what alcohol can’t. The metaphors used in the song are all the man can come up with to describe what this person means to him. The line “I stay stoned on your love” didn’t catch on so the authors went with “Tennessee Whiskey” instead. Originally pitched to George Strait shortly after it was finished, Strait ultimately passed on recording it.

“You’re as smooth as Tennessee whiskey
You’re as sweet as strawberry wine
You’re as warm as a glass of brandy
And honey, I stay stoned on your love all the time”

Welcome to Lunchtime Lyrics on The Coyote – Bold New Country! Every weekday at noon, we dig into the heart of country music, breaking down the origins and lyrics behind the tunes that define the genre. From heartfelt ballads to toe-tapping anthems, we’ve got the stories you didn’t know you needed. Grab your lunch and settle in, it’s time to uncover the secrets behind your favorite tracks.