After his awesome performance at the 2015 CMA Awards, budding country artist Chris Stapleton found himself an instant country star. In fact, his debut album, Traveller, has gained a lot of awards, including some Grammys.
With this massive achievement he has, Stapleton utilized his talent not only for pure entertainment but also for good causes. As a matter of fact, he has since then used his newfound fame to help promote awareness such as mental health.
Two years ago, in February, Stapleton came up with a heartbreaking music video which featured his song “Fire Away.” This video proved that his talent has the potential to spread awareness and change lives. Moreover, it was such an influential video that made CMA hail it as the Music Video of the Year for 2016. In the same year at CMT Music Awards, it also took home the award for Breakthrough Video of the Year.
“Fire Away:” A Song that Addresses the Pain of Depression
Written by Chris Stapleton and Danny Green, “Fire Away” was the second track of Stapleton’s debut album, Traveller. The lyrics of the song reveals a story of a toxic relationship that is evident in the lines:
“Pick up your sticks and your stones, and pretend I’m a shelter for heartaches that don’t have a home.” In response to the pain and suffering the narrator experiences in the relationship, he tells his lover “Fire away. Take your best shot, show me what you got.”
Emotional as it is, the song takes on a new meaning in the music video. It follows a couple through multiple stages in life which includes courtship, marriage and buying their house. Prior to that, the man walks into a bar alone. This sets up the idea that his love story doesn’t have a happy ending.
As the video continues, the wife, on the other hand, struggles with depression. She even tries to kill herself, but her husband responds in time. Unfortunately, the wife successfully kills herself, and he is no longer able to save her.
In the video, Stapleton makes a brief appearance as the bartender. But beyond the great vocals he has, the powerful message of the video is a standout.
Together, the song and the video help bring awareness and address issues about suicide and depression. By the end of the video, Stapleton mentions The Campaign to Change Direction, an organization that pledges “to change the culture in America about mental health, mental illness, and wellness.”
To give light to this cause, Stapleton expresses his support for the organization through the message he brings in his emotional “Fire Away” music video.
Prepare to dry a few tears as you watch this poignant video Stapleton recorded for you:
Writer’s Note: If you or someone you know is undergoing suicidal thoughts or is feeling depressed, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
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