David Allan Coe, a renowned country singer, first released the song Tennessee Whiskey in 1981. Although it garnered appreciation within country music circles, it wasn’t until 2015 that the song reached mainstream audiences in an entirely new way. Chris Stapleton, a rising star in the music industry at the time, transformed the song with an R&B twist for his debut album, Traveller. His rendition not only showcased his deep, soulful voice but also gave the song a fresh identity, blending country roots with bluesy, emotional undertones. This reinvention became an instant hit and played a significant role in Stapleton’s rise to fame. According to Country Thang Daily, Stapleton’s version of Tennessee Whiskey ignited a social media trend where fans and aspiring musicians began covering his interpretation, each adding their unique spin to the iconic song.
One of the most notable covers came in 2017 from Kris Jones, an everyday man with an extraordinary voice. His performance of Tennessee Whiskey, filmed in a Home Depot parking lot, quickly became a viral sensation. The story behind the video adds an even more personal touch to its success. Kris’s daughter, Dayla, had been urging him to share his talent with the world. As a way to encourage him, she recorded his rendition of the song on her phone and shared it online. What began as a simple act of father-daughter bonding turned into a whirlwind of attention. The video struck a chord with millions of viewers, accumulating an astonishing 70 million views on social media within just 14 months, according to The Country Music Family.
Kris Jones’ cover of Tennessee Whiskey became a symbol of raw, unfiltered talent meeting the power of social media. The video not only showcased his incredible vocal range but also reflected a touching dynamic between a father and his daughter, further endearing them to audiences worldwide. Viewers were captivated by the sincerity in Dayla’s proud expressions and Kris’s soulful performance. The simplicity of the setting—a Home Depot parking lot—served as a reminder that true talent doesn’t need elaborate stages or fancy production. Instead, authenticity and emotion are what resonate with people.
As the video gained traction, it caught the attention of none other than Ellen DeGeneres. Known for her knack for discovering and promoting viral sensations, Ellen invited Kris and Dayla to appear on The Ellen Show. Their guest appearance brought their story to an even broader audience, showcasing not only Kris’s remarkable talent but also the heartwarming bond between father and daughter. The pair’s charm and Kris’s humility made them instant favorites on the show. Ellen’s platform also introduced Kris to music enthusiasts who may not have encountered his viral video otherwise.
Beyond his viral moment, Kris Jones has continued to pursue his passion for music. In 2018, he released an EP that included a cover of Chris Stapleton’s Tennessee Whiskey, solidifying his place as more than just a viral sensation. His EP received positive feedback from fans and further demonstrated his versatility as a singer. While Stapleton’s version remains the benchmark for many, Kris’s interpretation carved out its own space, blending smooth vocals with a rich emotional delivery that distinguished him from the countless other covers circulating online.
Kris Jones’ journey is more than just the story of a viral video; it’s a testament to the enduring power of great music and the profound impact of family support. His daughter, Dayla, played an instrumental role in his rise to fame, believing in his talent and pushing him to share it with the world. Their story resonates with anyone who has ever needed a little encouragement from a loved one to take a leap of faith. It also underscores the unpredictable nature of the digital age, where a simple phone recording can transform an ordinary individual into a global sensation overnight.
The success of Kris’s video also highlights the timeless appeal of Tennessee Whiskey. Originally a country classic by David Allan Coe, reimagined by George Jones in 1983, and later given new life by Chris Stapleton, the song has proven its ability to transcend generations and genres. Each version of the song carries its own unique flavor, yet the core themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption remain universal. Stapleton’s soulful arrangement brought the song to a younger, more diverse audience, while Kris Jones’ cover demonstrated its reach beyond professional musicians, inspiring everyday people to share their own interpretations.
Kris Jones has since become a symbol of undiscovered talent, representing countless individuals with exceptional abilities waiting for the right moment to shine. His story also serves as an inspiring reminder that sometimes, the most remarkable opportunities come from unexpected places. Whether it’s a parking lot or a living room, talent paired with authenticity can create magic.
The journey of Tennessee Whiskey, from its inception in 1981 to its modern renditions, reflects the evolving nature of music and its ability to connect people across time and space. Kris Jones’ viral cover is a modern chapter in this legacy, illustrating how technology and social media can bring hidden gems to light. His performance remains a source of inspiration for aspiring singers and a testament to the power of music to move hearts and bring people together.
In a world saturated with highly produced content, Kris Jones and his daughter reminded us of the beauty in simplicity. Their story not only showcased a remarkable talent but also celebrated the love and support that can bring out the best in us. For Kris, Tennessee Whiskey was more than just a song—it was the beginning of a journey that resonated far beyond a Home Depot parking lot.