Chris & Morgane Stapleton Deliver Heartfelt “What Am I Gonna Do” at 2024 CMA Awards

A Duet That Captured the Night

At the 58th Annual CMA Awards in 2024Chris Stapleton and his wife Morgane Stapleton delivered one of the most emotional performances of the evening with their rendition of “What Am I Gonna Do.” The song, co-written by Chris and Miranda Lambert, is featured on Stapleton’s critically acclaimed album Higher.

Their heartfelt duet stood out as one of the most memorable moments of the night, blending raw emotion with their undeniable vocal chemistry.

A Night of Country Music Excellence

Earlier in the evening, Stapleton had already made waves with Post Malone, performing “California Sober.” That high-energy performance was followed by the intimate, soul-stirring duet with Morgane, showcasing the depth and range of Chris’s artistry.

The 2024 CMA Awards became an unforgettable night for Stapleton, not only because of his performances but also because he took home major wins.

Chris Stapleton’s Big Wins

Stapleton earned several top honors, including:

  • Song of the Year (White Horse)

  • Single of the Year (White Horse)

  • *Male Vocalist of the Year

These awards once again confirmed his status as one of the most important and respected artists in country music today.

The Meaning Behind “What Am I Gonna Do”

The song “What Am I Gonna Do” deals with heartbreak, longing, and the difficult path of moving forward after love ends. The lyrics reflect a universal question many people ask themselves when faced with loss: what comes next?

When Chris and Morgane performed the song live, they gave it an additional layer of tenderness and authenticity. Their emotional delivery and deep connection made the song resonate even more with the audience.

Why the Performance Stood Out

Fans and critics alike agreed that the Stapletons’ duet was one of the highlights of the night. Every glance, every harmony, and every note carried sincerity. Their connection as husband and wife brought the lyrics to life, making the performance feel intimate—even in a room filled with thousands of people.

It reminded viewers why Stapleton has become such a powerful storyteller in music. His ability to capture real human emotion and translate it into song is what continues to make his performances timeless.