Dua Lipa wowed the audience at the Academy of Country Music Awards when she performed with Chris Stapleton.
The pop star made an unexpected appearance Thursday night at a country music show at the Ford Theater at the Star in Frisco, Texas.
The performance began with the New Rules hitmaker singing her 2023 song “Think I'm in Love With You” by herself, before Chris took to the stage to perform a duet with her.
In an interview with Billboard, Dua revealed that she reached out to the country music star about a live collaboration because she is a “huge fan” of his.
The 28-year-old told the media it was “absolutely incredible” to work with Chris and his band for several days and “brainstorm ideas on how this song could be reimagined.” .
As for keeping the duet a secret, she added, “I think we were all working really hard to keep this a surprise, to make this moment even more special.” I don't know if I did it, but I'm glad.'' It was always fun because it was really special when it happened on stage tonight. ”
Her country collaborator had a big night at the ACM Awards, winning three awards: Artist-Songwriter of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year for Higher.
His accomplishments were matched by Laney Wilson, who won Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, and Musical Event of the Year for “Save Me with Jelly Roll.”
Dua wasn't the only non-country star to take to the stage at the awards show – Post Malone debuted a new country song and hosted the show before performing his current hit “I Had Some Help.” McIntyre performed a cover of the Allman Brothers Band's Ramblin' Man with Reba.
Additionally, Avril Lavigne performed with Nate Smith for the live debut of their collaboration “Bulletproof.”