Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey” has cemented its place in music history, achieving double diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). This remarkable milestone, confirmed earlier this week, marks the first time a country song has earned this prestigious accolade, and represents a monumental sales achievement.
According to the RIAA, “Tennessee Whiskey” has sold an astonishing 20 million units globally. This surpasses the previous record held by tracks like Bruno Mars’ “Just The Way You Are” and Post Malone and Swae Lee’s “Sunflower,” which are currently tied for second place with double diamond certifications. The consistent success of “Tennessee Whiskey” speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and the widespread impact of Stapleton’s signature sound.
CEO Mitch Glazier lauded Stapleton’s artistry, noting “undeniable vocal grit and storytelling.” This accomplishment underscores the song’s position not just as a chart-topper, but as a significant contributor to the landscape of contemporary country music. The song’s sustained popularity continues to drive sales and solidifies Stapleton’s status as one of the genre’s most commercially successful and critically acclaimed artists.
Beyond the continued success of the song itself, Stapleton is currently gearing up for his 2026 All American Road Show Tour, a multi-city trek promising to bring his music to fans across North America, starting with a February performance in Las Vegas. Furthermore, Stapleton’s music is featured on the soundtrack for the upcoming season 2 of ‘Nobody Wants This’ and alongside F1’s official soundtrack, expanding his reach and showcasing his versatility.
What This Means for Consumers
This double diamond certification offers consumers reassurance of the song’s sustained popularity. It’s a clear indicator of lasting demand, suggesting that “Tennessee Whiskey” will remain a prominent fixture in playlists and radio rotations for years to come. Furthermore, it represents a tangible investment for collectors and music fans, demonstrating the song’s substantial sales volume.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Confirmed Longevity:
The double diamond certification guarantees continued airplay and streaming opportunities.
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Investment Potential:
Collectors can be confident in the value of their purchases.
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Brand Recognition:
The certification reinforces Stapleton’s brand as a leading country artist.
Cons:
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Limited New Releases:
While the certification validates the song’s success, it doesn’t necessarily signal further new releases from Stapleton.
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Market Saturation:
Increased demand due to the certification could potentially increase prices for used copies.
