Chris Stapleton – Starting Over: A Soulful Ballad of Renewal and Hope
Chris Stapleton’s Starting Over is a deeply resonant anthem of fresh beginnings and quiet resolve, delivered with the soul-stirring authenticity that has become his hallmark. Released in 2020 as the lead single for his fourth studio album of the same name, the song feels both intimate and universal—a reflection on life’s uncertainties and the courage it takes to embrace change.
From the moment the track begins, the warmth of Stapleton’s acoustic guitar draws listeners into a space of quiet contemplation. His raspy, soulful voice, underscored by the delicate harmonies of his wife Morgane, creates an atmosphere that feels as if you’re sitting across from a trusted friend sharing life’s ups and downs. Lyrically, the song is as grounded as it is uplifting, offering a message of hope wrapped in simplicity: “And it don’t matter to me / Wherever we are is where I want to be.”
The genius of Starting Over lies in its ability to balance the bittersweet acknowledgment of life’s struggles with an unwavering optimism. Stapleton’s words are both a roadmap and a reassurance, urging us to take the leap into the unknown while finding solace in the company of those who matter most. The gentle cadence of the melody mirrors the rhythm of life itself—steady, reflective, and forward-moving.
Musically, the track is steeped in Stapleton’s characteristic blend of country, folk, and Americana influences. The minimalist arrangement allows the emotional weight of the song to shine through, with every strum and vocal inflection carrying meaning. Morgane Stapleton’s harmonies add a layer of intimacy, as if underscoring the theme that new beginnings are often made stronger by shared connection.
Performed live for the first time at the 2020 CMA Awards, Starting Over took on even greater poignancy amidst a year marked by upheaval and uncertainty. It served as a timely reminder that starting anew, while daunting, is also a chance to rediscover what truly matters.
In Starting Over, Chris Stapleton offers not just a song, but a heartfelt embrace—a promise that, no matter how uncertain the road ahead, we have the strength to begin again. It’s a testament to the enduring human spirit, delivered with the kind of raw, emotional honesty that makes Stapleton one of the most compelling voices in modern music.