A Pop Star’s Country Collaboration
In April 2019, pop sensation P!nk released Hurts 2B Human, an album that garnered critical praise and was met with a warm reception from fans, propelling it to the top of the Billboard 200 chart.
This is an album that, under normal circumstances, might not have drawn much attention from country music fans. While a few dedicated country listeners may have checked it out after P!nk’s chart-topping 2016 duet with Kenny Chesney, “Setting the World on Fire,” the album’s appeal to the genre was limited.
However, a fresh collaboration has become the catalyst for country fans tuning into P!nk’s music.
In early April 2019, news spread that P!nk had teamed up with one of country’s powerhouse vocalists for a new duet. That artist was none other than Chris Stapleton, who lent his voice to the pop star’s new track, “Love Me Anyway.”
The song immediately resonated with fans, despite not being a single. It even managed to land on the 96th spot of the Billboard Hot 100.
Listeners were in awe of the duo’s vocal chemistry, with many commenting on how their contrasting tones blended beautifully to create a unique sound.
Once they heard the magic of Love Me Anyway in the studio, fans eagerly anticipated the day the two would perform the song live.
That moment came on May 21, 2019, when P!nk took the stage in front of a sold-out Madison Square Garden crowd.
The Surprise Moment
What an amazing surprise having Chris Stapleton come out and perform “Love Me Anyway” with @Pink! A beautiful song sung by two amazing artists! #BeautifulTraumaTour pic.twitter.com/jirRL6GFyL
— Britt (@xraytech88) May 22, 2019
P!nk began the performance solo, just as she did in the recorded version. The audience, blissfully unaware, was enjoying her voice when, suddenly, they spotted Stapleton walking onto the stage.
The crowd erupted in excitement as they realized what was happening. Without hesitation, Stapleton joined in, and the two harmonized live, proving that their voices were just as incredible together in person as they were on the track.
P!nk later shared the experience on social media, expressing her admiration for Stapleton. She posted a photo from their duet, writing, “One of my absolute favorite songwriters, favorite voice, and person. Chris Stapleton. What an absolute honor to share a stage with you, my friend.”
Her admiration for him was clear when, at the end of the performance, she embraced Stapleton and fell to the ground in awe of his talent.
A Memorable Moment for the Audience
The lucky crowd at Madison Square Garden had the privilege of being the first to witness this stunning live performance. What an unforgettable experience it must have been to see such a powerful duet unfold in person!
If you weren’t among the fortunate few who got to see this live, don’t worry. You can still enjoy the magic by watching the full video of P!nk and Stapleton’s performance below. After seeing this, you’ll surely be hoping for more collaborations between the two in the future.