Chris Young Fights Back Tears During Emotional Performance Of New Song, ‘Drowning’

Country hitmaker Chris Young experienced a tearful moment when he took the stage at the Grand Ole Opry on Thursday (June 6).

During his set, he debuted the touching, piano-driven ballad, “Drowning,” which is about a close friend who passed away.

Standing on the hollowed circle and dressed in all black, the Tennessee native gripped the microphone to unveil the touching song.

“So tonight I’m gonna pull out pictures / Ones with you in ’em / Laugh and cry a little while reminiscing by myself / I can’t help at all but think about it / How you were taken way too soon / It ain’t the same here without you / I’ve gotta say, missin’ you comes in waves / And tonight I’m drowning,” he sings in the chorus.

Young couldn’t help but get choked up during his performance. He turned his back to the microphone to compose himself as the band continued to play on. After a few bars, the singer returned to his place, but continued to have trouble pulling his emotions together, making the moment even more unforgettable for everyone in the room. Fans loved seeing Young’s vulnerability and praised him with cheers before the band finished the balled without him.

It has been quite an eventful week for Young. During his appearance at CMA Fest, he was surprised with two commemorative plaques for having more than 2 Billion career streams and 12 Million singles sold. The accomplishment was enough to make him the 15th most streamed country artist of all time. Young’s manager, Rob Beckham, and Sony Music Nashville CEO Randy Goodman presented him with the honor during his appearance at Fan Fair X.

“This is thanks to every single person here who has bought a CD, streamed a single or come to my concerts. I can’t thank you enough for all the support you’ve shown me and can’t wait to share more music with you soon!” Young told fans at the event.

“Drowning,” written with Corey Crowder and Josh Hoge, will be featured on Young’s upcoming album, Raised On Country, set for release later this year. Due to the incredible response of his recent performance of the tune, Young announced via Instagram that he will release “Drowning” to streaming services on Friday, June 14.