LS ‘“NOT MANY PEOPLE CAN SING THEIR FLAWS OUT LOUD… BUT HE CAN.” Chris Stapleton walked onto the CMA Awards stage like a man who didn’t owe anybody a thing — just his truth. The lights were low, his guitar hummed that warm, slow riff, and then he let out a line that felt more like a confession than a lyric: “I can’t change — I’m still as bad as I used to be.” No drama. No polish. Just the kind of honesty that hits you right in the chest. His voice tore through the room, rough and real, and people stood up without even thinking. You could feel the whole place lock onto him — one man, one harmonica, and a truth only he could sing.’
Country’s Biggest Stars Shine at the 2025 CMA Awards
On November 19, Nashville, Tennessee once again became the heart of country music as artists gathered to celebrate the 59th Annual CMA Awards.
Lainey Wilson returned as host for the second consecutive year, marking her first time taking on the role entirely on her own — and she carried the show with confidence, charm, and warmth.
Chris Stapleton Delivers One of the Night’s Standout Performances
Among the many memorable moments, Chris Stapleton captivated the audience with a powerful performance of his track “Bad As I Used To Be.” His unmistakable vocals and soulful presence made the song one of the evening’s highlights.
Chris Stapleton’s Anticipated Release: F1: The Album
Originally released in May 2025, “Bad As I Used To Be” appears on Stapleton’s project F1: The Album. This marked his first solo release since his 2023 album Higher.
The album serves as the official soundtrack for F1 the Movie, which debuted in theaters earlier last summer.
“Bad As I Used To Be” blends Stapleton’s signature, rootsy sound with subtle rock-and-roll elements. The track opens with a warm guitar line, soon joined by a rich harmonica that creates a steady, hypnotic tone throughout the song.
In the lyrics, Stapleton reflects on the pull between self-improvement and old habits. Although he longs to be a better man, he admits he still gravitates toward the fast-paced lifestyle he knows so well.
Lyrics excerpt:
“I bet you thought / You’d seen the last of me / I can’t change the way I am, you see? / I think it’s my responsibility to tell you / I’m just as bad as I used to be.”
Listen to Chris Stapleton’s “Bad As I Used To Be” below.
Chris Stapleton Brings Raw Emotion to the CMA Stage
Chris’ performance at the 2025 CMA Awards showcased the depth of his artistry. His gritty delivery and natural stage presence immediately pulled the audience in.
Midway through the performance, he delivered a smooth guitar solo that highlighted both his musicianship and the emotional weight of the song.
The crowd responded with a standing ovation, reaffirming why Stapleton continues to be one of the most respected and admired voices in modern country music.
Watch Chris Stapleton’s live CMA performance below.
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