Luke Combs Covers “What Are You Listening To” By Chris Stapleton – Is It Better Than The Original?

Luke Combs recently accepted Morgan Wallen’s “Deep Cut Challenge” and delivered a heartfelt cover of Chris Stapleton’s “What Are You Listening To.” This challenge has gained popularity among country artists as a way to showcase their musical influences by performing lesser-known songs, or “deep cuts,” from admired artists.

Combs’ choice to cover Stapleton was a fitting tribute to a contemporary who shares his dedication to raw, honest songwriting. “What Are You Listening To,” although not one of Stapleton’s most commercially popular songs, has resonated deeply with fans for its emotional depth and vivid storytelling—a style that Combs also exemplifies in his own music.

In his rendition, Combs brought his signature vocal strength and emotional expression, capturing the melancholy that defines Stapleton’s original. The song revolves around the theme of heartbreak, as the narrator questions what his former lover might be listening to in moments of solitude.

This cover allowed Combs to connect with the song’s intimate lyrics and reflect his own knack for conveying vulnerability, a quality that has endeared him to fans. His stripped-down acoustic performance kept the focus on the song’s message, emphasizing the universal experience of reminiscing over lost love and wondering if those same memories affect the other person.

Here is Chris Stapleton’s version:

Combs’ participation in the Deep Cut Challenge not only demonstrated his admiration for Stapleton but also reflected a broader trend among country artists to celebrate and elevate each other’s work. By choosing “What Are You Listening To,” Combs highlighted a song that resonates with fans of genuine, unembellished country music.

The Deep Cut Challenge, started by Wallen, has encouraged a refreshing shift in the industry, where artists pay homage to their influences and share lesser-known treasures with their audiences. Combs’ rendition of Stapleton’s song stood out for its authenticity, and fans appreciated his genuine approach to honoring a peer whose songwriting has left a lasting impact on the genre.

If you want more music and videos from Luke Combs, check out his YouTube Channel. Fans can also connect with him on Instagram. Get news, updates, and tour info on his official website.