Shane McAnally Honored With CMA Chairman’s Award

CMA Board Chairman John Esposito (right) presents “Forever Country” musical producer and CMA Board member Shane McAnally with the CMA Chairman’s Award Monday night during a CMA Board dinner at the Association’s new Music Row headquarters. Photo: Christian Bottorff / CMA

The musical producer behind “Forever Country,” CMA Board member Shane McAnally, was presented the CMA Chairman’s Award Monday night during a dinner for CMA Board members at the Association’s new corporate offices on Music Row.

“I’m honored to present the Chairman’s Award and it is without compare that we recognize Shane McAnally,” said John Esposito, CMA Chairman of the Board and President/CEO of Warner Music Nashville. “His talent, dedication and passion for Country Music was a major force in the success of ‘Forever Country’ on a global scale, and I am proud to salute him and his contributions to the music industry with the Chairman’s Award.”

“As a child growing up in Mineral Wells, Texas, the CMA Awards broadcast each year was truly a highlight – I would plan my entire year around the one night I could see all the stars perform and be recognized for their music. I’ve spent my life loving these artists, their lyrics, and stories, so being a part of the ‘Forever Country’ project while serving as a CMA Board member is something wildest dreams are made of,” shared McAnally. “To say that I’m honored to receive the Chairman’s Award from one of my heroes and greatest champions of music would be an extreme understatement. John Esposito is the heart of this community and his encouragement and leadership as the CMA Chairman makes us all want to work harder and be better for this genre and this organization.”

The Chairman’s Award is given annually at the discretion of the Chairman of the Board. At the presentation, Esposito praised McAnally’s vision and tireless efforts on behalf of Country Music and “Forever Country.”

Pictured (L-R): Incoming CMA Chairman Sally Williams, CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern, and outgoing CMA Board Chairman John Esposito. Photo: Christian Bottorff / CMA

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Jessica Nicholson

Jessica Nicholson serves as the Managing Editor for MusicRow magazine. Her previous music journalism experience includes work with Country Weekly magazine and Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) magazine. She holds a BBA degree in Music Business and Marketing from Belmont University. She welcomes your feedback at jnicholson@musicrow.com.

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