In this episode of Mississippi on the Map, host Charlie Worsham sits down with 11-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Chris Stapleton for a conversation recorded at the Congress of Country Music in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Together, they explore the deep ties between blues and country music, from Pops Staples' signature tremolo to the poetry and songwriting methods of the late Mike Henderson. Chris shares stories about recording “Friendship,” chasing elusive guitar sounds, and how he came to play a guitar that was owned by three country music legends (Hank, Johnny, and Marty). With warmth, humor, and humility, Chris reflects on influence, legacy, and the blues roots that run through every chord of American music.

Mississippi places mentioned in this episode: Congress of Country Music, B.B. King Museum, Elvis Presley Birthplace, Philadelphia, Indianola, Mississippi Delta, Tupelo, Meridian.

People and groups mentioned in this episode: Marty Stuart, Pops Staples, Mavis Staples, Dave Cobb, Mike Henderson, B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Jimmie Rodgers, Bill Monroe, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams Sr., George Jones, Charley Pride, William Faulkner, Eudora Welty.