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Chris Stapleton Closes Out the Two Step Inn Festival with Soulful Power

By Clarissa Darling on May 4, 2026

Chris Stapleton stepped onto the Big River Stage at 8:30 p.m. on April 19, 2026, and the closing-night crowd at San Gabriel Park felt the weight and warmth of a voice that cuts straight through the evening air. With his gritty, soul-drenched baritone and a sound that blends raw country storytelling, blues swagger, and rock muscle, he creates music that feels both timeless and deeply personal. In today’s scene full of polished productions, Stapleton stands out for keeping things honest—letting the songs and that unmistakable voice do the heavy lifting without needing gimmicks. I’ve followed him since he was an opening act for Little Big Town, about 13 years ago.

Chris Stapleton performs at Day 2 of the Two Step Inn Festival, Georgetown Texas on April 18, 2026. (Photo Credit and copyright: Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

From Kentucky Bluegrass Roots to Global Country Force

A Kentucky native who first made waves fronting the bluegrass band The SteelDrivers, Stapleton broke through as a solo artist in 2015 with his debut album *Traveller*. The record earned him multiple Grammy Awards, CMA honors, and a string of hits including “Tennessee Whiskey,” “Nobody to Blame,” and “Millionaire.” Since then he has released several more acclaimed albums, sold out arenas worldwide, and become one of the most respected voices in modern country. His live shows remain a highlight for fans, known for their emotional depth and powerhouse delivery.

Chris Stapleton and His Touring Band

Chris Stapleton – Lead Vocals and Guitar
J.T. Cure – Bass
Derek Mixon – Drums
Robby Turner – Pedal Steel
Mike Webb – Keyboards
Mickey Raphael – Harmonica
Morgane Stapleton – Backing Vocals and Tambourine

(The core touring band has remained remarkably stable for years with no substantial lineup changes reported.)

J.T. Cure, with Chris Stapleton performs at Day 2 of the Two Step Inn Festival, Georgetown Texas on April 18, 2026. (Photo Credit and copyright: Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Derek Mixon, with Chris Stapleton performs at Day 2 of the Two Step Inn Festival, Georgetown Texas on April 18, 2026. (Photo Credit and copyright: Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Robby Turner, with Chris Stapleton performs at Day 2 of the Two Step Inn Festival, Georgetown Texas on April 18, 2026. (Photo Credit and copyright: Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Mickey Raphael, of Willie Nelson’s and Hank Jr.’s bands, also with Chris Stapleton, performs at Day 2 of the Two Step Inn Festival, Georgetown Texas on April 18, 2026. (Photo Credit and copyright: Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Morgane joins husband Chris Stapleton as he performs at Day 2 of the Two Step Inn Festival, Georgetown Texas on April 18, 2026. (Photo Credit and copyright: Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

His Set on the Big River Stage

As the headliner on the festival’s main Big River Stage, Stapleton and the band delivered a powerful, crowd-pleasing set that mixed newer material with longtime favorites. The performance had the kind of easy confidence that comes from years on the road, and the Day 2 audience responded with strong singalongs and sustained applause. The set captured the soulful energy that has made Stapleton a festival favorite.

The Two Step Inn festival returned to scenic San Gabriel Park in Georgetown, Texas—just a short drive north of Austin—for its 2026 edition. The park’s live oaks and open spaces create a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere that feels more like a hometown gathering than a massive production. Three stages offered something for every taste: Pony Up for emerging artists, Showdeo for established favorites, and Big River for headliners like Stapleton, all supported by local food vendors and plenty of room to spread out. After Day 1’s weather interruptions, Day 2 brought clearer skies and a full, memorable day of music.

Most Likely Setlist (full official setlist not published; based on the 2026 All-American Road Show tour and confirmed highlights from the festival):

Bad As I Used To Be
Midnight Train to Memphis
Arkansas
What Am I Gonna Do
Worry B Gone
Nobody to Blame
Millionaire
Parachute
It Takes a Woman

Why Chris Stapleton’s Live Shows Still Feel Essential

Stapleton’s Big River set showed why he remains one of the most reliable headliners in country music—songs that hit hard and a voice that connects on a gut level, delivered by a band that knows exactly how to support him. Whether you’re hearing a favorite for the hundredth time or discovering a deeper cut, his performances give you that satisfying feeling of being in the room with an artist who truly means every note. If you appreciate country with real soul and power, his ongoing 2026 All-American Road Show dates offer plenty of chances to catch him in action. You’ll likely leave with the kind of musical high that lingers long after the lights go down.