Chris Gaines is a fictional character created by American country music artist Garth Brooks. Introduced in 1999, Gaines is portrayed as a rock musician with a troubled past, featuring a distinct persona that contrasts with Brooks' traditional country image. The character was part of a concept album titled "Garth Brooks in... The Life of Chris Gaines." The album was intended to serve as a soundtrack for a planned film about Gaines, which ultimately did not materialize. Despite mixed reviews, the project showcased Brooks' versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical styles beyond his country roots.