It's man's work. My dad was gone at 4:30 in the morning and home at 8 at night, and he worked underground, and the last mine he worked in was 26 inches high in a lot of places. He liked the engineering of it - he liked the moving the earth and being able to extract something and put it back for reclamation. He enjoyed the whole process.

The quote by Chris Stapleton reflects the demanding and physically challenging nature of his father's work in the mining industry. By saying, "It's man's work," Stapleton acknowledges the tough and gritty nature of the job, highlighting that it was not only labor-intensive but also required a strong sense of dedication and resilience. His father's daily routine—leaving for work at 4:30 in the morning and returning late at night—reflects the sacrifices and hard work involved in supporting a family through demanding labor.

Stapleton also shares the details of his father's role, noting that he worked underground, often in cramped conditions where the mine was only 26 inches high in places. This emphasizes the harshness and difficulty of the mining environment, where physical strength and perseverance were essential to endure such working conditions. The fact that his father endured these conditions with determination speaks to the strength required for such a job.

Additionally, Stapleton explains that his father had a particular interest in the engineering aspect of mining, as well as in the process of moving earth and extracting valuable materials. His father’s enjoyment of these technical aspects, including the ability to extract and then reclaim the earth, shows his pride in the craftsmanship and engineering challenges involved. It highlights that for his father, this work wasn’t just about the physical toll—it was also about the satisfaction of solving problems and being part of a process that shaped the land.

Chris Stapleton’s reflection on his father’s work ethic and passion for the industry speaks to the influence this had on his own life. Growing up in such an environment likely taught Stapleton about the value of hard work, resilience, and finding pride in one’s labor, even in difficult and physically demanding conditions. The quote underscores the importance of family influence and the lessons learned from observing a parent’s dedication and satisfaction in their work.