CMA Unveils 2025 International Award Winners

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Pictured (Top Row, L-R): Lynette Garbonola, Shannon Saunders, Justin Thomson. (Bottom Row, L-R): Mattias Hansson, Morgan Wallen, Cameron Whitcomb.

The Country Music Association has unveiled the winners of this year’s CMA International Awards, which recognize the efforts of individuals and organizations driving the global growth of country music. Honorees will be celebrated at a special reception on Nov. 19, in downtown Nashville, in addition to being recognized on stage that same evening during the pre-telecast ceremony at the 2025 CMA Awards.

“This year’s honorees embody the extraordinary ways Country Music continues to transcend borders,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “Whether through radio, touring, media, or artist development, each has helped share the genre with audiences around the world. Their work not only broadens Country Music’s reach, it deepens its impact, reminding us that this community truly is global.”

Lynette Garbonola, Vice President, International, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, receives the CMA Jo Walker Meador International Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual in advocating and supporting country music’s marketing development in territories outside the United States.

Shannon Saunders, Agent, Head of Nashville International, WME, takes home the Rob Potts International Live Music Advancement Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievements made by an individual who has significantly contributed to the live music industry by extending performance opportunities and building live audiences for country music outside of the United States.

Justin Thomson, National Content Director, iHeartCountry Australia, receives the Wesley Rose International Media Achievement Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievements in the media as they relate to country music outside of the United States.

Mattias Hansson, Radio Producer/Presenter at P4 Country, Sveriges Radio, takes the International Country Broadcaster Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by a radio broadcaster or syndicated radio reporter outside the United States who has made important contributions for the development of country music in their country.

Morgan Wallen receives the International Artist Achievement Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by a U.S.-based artist who has demonstrated the most significant creative growth, development and promotion of the country music industry outside of the United States during the eligibility period.

Cameron Whitcomb takes home the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award, which recognizes outstanding achievements by a Country Music artist who is originally based internationally.

Lauryn Sink
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