Daughter Proudly Listens to Dad’s Stunning Tennessee Whiskey Rendition in the Car

David Allan Coe originally recorded “Tennessee Whiskey” in 1981, a track that would later become a staple in country music. Coe’s version of the song, written by Dean Dillon and Linda Hargrove, is a classic example of his gritty, raw style. Despite its strong presence in the country genre, it wasn’t until Chris Stapleton’s cover that “Tennessee Whiskey” truly gained widespread acclaim. Stapleton’s rendition, included on his 2015 debut album Traveller, infused the song with a rich, soulful R&B influence that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Stapleton’s version brought new life to the song, transforming it into a powerful ballad that blended country with a bluesy, modern twist. His emotionally charged performance and distinctive vocal style earned “Tennessee Whiskey” a fresh wave of popularity, creating a significant buzz on social media and music platforms. This resurgence led to a trend where fans and artists alike began posting their own renditions of Stapleton’s cover, further spreading its influence.

One of the most notable of these covers is the 2017 video of Kris Jones performing “Tennessee Whiskey” in a Home Depot parking lot. The video, which features Jones singing the song at his daughter Dayla’s request, captured the hearts of viewers with its heartfelt, personal touch. Dayla, eager to showcase her father’s talent to her friends, prompted the impromptu performance, which quickly became a viral sensation.

The video’s popularity soared, amassing over 70 million views on social media within just 14 months. The heartfelt nature of the performance, combined with the powerful connection between father and daughter, struck a chord with audiences around the world. This viral success didn’t go unnoticed, as the video eventually caught the attention of talk show host Ellen DeGeneres. She invited Kris and Dayla to appear on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, further boosting their visibility and sharing their touching story with a broader audience.

Kris Jones’ subsequent 2018 EP, which featured a track inspired by Chris Stapleton’s version of “Tennessee Whiskey,” capitalized on the viral momentum. The EP’s release continued to build on the interest generated by the Home Depot parking lot video, marking a significant moment in Jones’ musical career. The continued success of this cover highlights the enduring impact of Stapleton’s interpretation and the way it has inspired both amateur and seasoned performers to explore its emotional depth.

The viral spread of Jones’ cover underscores the power of social media in transforming traditional music tracks into contemporary phenomena. It also illustrates how personal connections and heartfelt performances can resonate widely, turning a simple video into a global sensation. As “Tennessee Whiskey” continues to be embraced by new generations of fans and performers, its legacy as a beloved classic remains firmly entrenched in the annals of music history.