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 marks a monumental first: no country song has ever previously reached this level of commercial success. The certification, signifying over 10 million units sold in the United States, underscores the song’s sustained popularity and broad appeal.
A Landmark Achievement
The RIAA’s double diamond certification denotes sales of 10 million units or more. This achievement for “Tennessee Whiskey” is particularly noteworthy, given the dominance of pop and hip-hop within the RIAA’s certification categories. While the precise figures remain undisclosed by the RIAA, industry estimates consistently point to sales exceeding 20 million units within the U.S. alone, a testament to the song’s enduring resonance.
“Tennessee Whiskey,” originally penned by Dean Dillon and Linda Hargrove at the Bluebird Cafe in 1980, has been interpreted and performed by a diverse roster of artists including David Allan Coe and George Jones. Stapleton’s own version, propelled by a powerful live performance at the 2015 CMA Awards, served as a crucial catalyst for the song’s resurgence.
According to Mitch Glazier, CEO of the RIAA, Stapleton’s “undeniable vocal grit and storytelling” were key factors in the song’s success. The track’s continued popularity transcends genre boundaries, continuing to resonate with audiences across musical landscapes.
“I don’t pretend to know how to explain magic or how to use it,” Stapleton reportedly stated regarding the song’s phenomenal run.
What This Means for Consumers
The double diamond certification provides definitive evidence of “Tennessee Whiskey’s” remarkable commercial performance. It assures consumers that the song’s popularity isn’t simply a fleeting trend, but rather a sustained cultural phenomenon. This level of certification is a strong indicator of a song’s lasting impact.
Pros and Cons
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Pros:
Confirms immense popularity and lasting appeal. Provides assurance of quality and commercial success. Represents a significant milestone in Stapleton’s career.
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Cons:
Sales figures remain largely undisclosed, limiting the ability to fully contextualize the achievement. RIAA certifications, while significant, don’t necessarily equate to artistic merit.
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* [Read the full article on RollingStone.com](https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/chris-stapleton-tennessee-whiskey-double-diamond-riaa-1234828/)
