Kentucky native’s heartfelt lesson in friendship on ‘Sesame Street’: ‘A friend in music’

KENTUCKY (FOX 56) — Chris Stapleton joins Elmo and friends for a duet we didn’t know we needed in the latest episode of “Sesame Street.”

A January news release announced that the 55th season of “Sesame Street” aims to help its young viewers grasp the importance of their emotional well-being, teaching age-appropriate strategies for understanding big feelings.

Stapleton was announced alongside a spread of musical and celebrity guests, including Noah Kahan, SZA, Michael B. Jordan, and Reneé Rapp, among others.

“New episodes of ‘Sesame Street’ will help young viewers understand and express their feelings, learn new mindfulness practices, and as always, have a blast with their favorite furry and funny friends,” said Sal Perez, executive producer. “Whether it’s taking a volcano breath when angry, learning to give yourself a hug when frustrated, or wiggling it out when disappointed, we are empowering children with the strategies to help build resiliency and the foundational skills for emotional well-being.”

Stapleton joined familiar faces like Elmo and Abby to sing a song called “You’ve Got a Friend in Music.”

“We’re here with our friend, Mr. Chris Stapleton,” Elmo introduced the Kentucky-native songwriter by saying.

“He’s teaching us all about music and friends,” Abby explained.

The song’s message is simple: music is there for you no matter what! Stapleton explains how music can be a tool when you’re feeling sad, scared, or lonely.

“Just remember when you’re sad, or on the best day you’ve ever had, whatever you do, you’ve got a friend in music,” Stapleton sang.

“That was beautiful, Mr. Chris,” Elmo said.

“Thank you, Elmo,” Stapleton signed off.

Click here to watch the clip.