Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson host The 58th Annual CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The 58th annual CMA Awards took over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 20) and included performances of some of the past year’s biggest hits and record-breaking wins.
Chris Stapleton accepts the award for Single of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Morgan Wallen won his first ever Entertainer of the Year trophy, while Megan Moroney was crowned New Artist of the Year. Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton tied for winning the most CMA Awards of all time, each with 19 total wins.
The night’s program kicked off with a rowdy bang, as Post Malone and Stapleton traded snarling verses of “California Sober” from Post’s blockbuster country album released this summer.
Post Malone performs “Yours” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Co-hosts Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning then appeared to get the show started. The shared banter about each of their roles as co-host, pointed out a guest of honor George Strait and shared that there were 31 first-time nominees.
Soon it was time to present the first award, Single of the Year. The trophy went to Stapleton, Dave Cobb and Vance Powell for “White Horse.”
“There are so many great and very popular songs in this category. I’m very humbled,” Stapleton said, marking the first of many acceptances speech he would go on to give last night.
Shaboozey performs a medley of “Highway” and “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Moroney turned Bridgestone Arena blue for her performance of new single “Am I Okay?” before the hosts returned. They shared a red-solo-cup toast to the late Toby Keith and then introduced Shaboozey to the CMA stage. The hitmaker played a bit of his new single “Highway” before thrilling the room with his record-breaking “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
The next award, Song of the Year, was presented to Stapleton and Dan Wilson for “White Horse.” Stapleton kept it brief, thanking his family and the voters, and then passed it on to Wilson.
Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims perform “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Woman” and “Lose Control” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“Nashville, thank you for letting me come visit and write songs,” Wilson said. “Thanks to Dave, Chris and Morgane Stapleton for producing such a rocking version of the song.”
Ella Langley started her Musical Event-winning breakout hit “You Look Like You Love Me” seated in the audience next to its co-writer Aaron Raitiere. She strutted up to the stage with the ease of a veteran. When Riley Green joined her for his part, it was already a highlight of the evening.
Megan Moroney accepts the award for New Artist of the Year at the CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Another duo, Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims, joined voices for “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman.” They sounded great together as the tune morphed into Swims’ “Lose Control.” Luke Combs brought the house down with his Grammy-nominated “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma” from the Twisters movie.
The New Artist prize went to Moroney. She was emotional as she looked around the arena. “This means so much to me. I have an incredible team,” she shared, recognizing her team members. “I’m freaking out! Thank you!”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan took the stage for a beautiful rendition of their “Cowboys Cry Too.” Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood brought the power for “I’m Gonna Love You.” The Stapletons blended their voices in perfect harmony on “What Am I Gonna Do.”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan perform “Cowboys Cry Too” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Kacey Musgraves performed her Grammy-nominated “The Architect,” before The Oak Ridge Boys appeared onstage to tribute their lost member Joe Bonsall. They then presented Vocal Group of the Year to Old Dominion. It was their seventh time clinching the trophy, the longest consecutive stretch of Group of the Year wins in CMA history.
“We just made history, that’s crazy,” Old Dominion frontman Matthew Ramsey said. “If you are an artist of any type or a creator or a musician, this is when the world needs you the most, when it’s weird like it is right now. Get out there and get together and create.”
Cody Johnson accepts the award for Album of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll joined Brooks & Dunn for a moving performance of “I Believe,” complete with a choir and string section, leading many artists in the audience to wine tears from their eyes. Post Malone then touched hearts with “She’s Yours.”
Album of the Year went to Cody Johnson for Leather. “There’s no way I could have created an album like this without great songwriters, without people that pour their heart and soul out every day on Music Row,” Johnson said before introducing producers Trent Willmon and Jack Clark to speak.
Wilson took a break from her hosting duties to perform “4x4xU” with a string section backing her. Bailey Zimmerman brought the WWE energy for his performance of “New To Country,” dropping onto his stage from the ceiling.
Brooks & Dunn accepts the award for Vocal Duo of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The next award, Vocal Duo of the Year, went to Brooks & Dunn for the 15th time. They were clearly shocked, smiling as the crowd cheered them up to the podium.
“Time is undefeated. Not yet I guess,” Kix Brooks said.
The Strait tribute started with Wilson singing a bit of “Amarillo By Morning,” with Jenee Fleenor and Charlie Worsham backing her. Jamey Johnson shared his version of “Give It Away,” a song he and Bill Anderson co-wrote for “The King of Country Music.” Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum joined Johnson on stage for “Troubadour.”
Strait then hit the stage with Stapleton for “Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame.” All the artists joined together for Stapleton to present the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award to “true country music royalty.”
George Strait performs “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
When the crowd gave Straight time to talk, he thanked God, his team, band and crew and his family. He spoke about the longtime team members he’s lost over the past year, including manager Erv Woolsey, road manager Tom Foote and band member Gene Elders.
“I want to thank the CMAs for adding my name to the incredible artists on this small list of recipients carrying the name of the icon, Willie Nelson,” Strait said. “I want to thank these great artists who performed some of the songs I’ve recorded over the years. It’s amazing to hear y’all do them—I’m so glad I got them before you.”
Ashley McBryde sang Kris Krisofferson‘s “Help Me Make It Through the Night” in tribute of the late legend.
Male Vocalist of the Year went to Stapleton, his eighth time claiming the honor.
“I’m out of things to say. I love all of y’all so much. Thank you CMAs for giving this award and all of y’all for voting for me,” the entertainer said.
Eric Church performs “Darkest Hour” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Host Bryan took to the stage for a performance of “Love You, Miss You, Mean It” before Combs appeared on stage to introduce the next performer, Eric Church. He shared that the two North Carolinians raised $24 million for hurricane relief with their benefit concert, and praised Church for donating royalties for his next song in perpetuity for the cause. Church then performed the philanthropic song, “Darkest Hour.”
Olympian Simone Biles presented Female Vocalist of the Year to Wilson, her third time winning the honor.
“Man, this community has wrapped its arms around me and lifted me up from the get-go,” Wilson said. “I’ve always been told if you feel like you’ve got a gift, you’re supposed to share it, and I think that means whether you drive a tractor or pour coffee, make people smile or laugh, whatever that is I think you’re supposed to share that gift.”
Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll and Keith Urban came together for a fiery performance of “Liar.” Bluegrass virtuosos Molly Tuttle, Sierra Hull and Bronwyn Keith-Hynes appeared alongside Dierks Bentley for his cover of Tom Petty‘s “American Girl.”
The night’s top honor, Entertainer of the Year, went to Morgan Wallen. It was his first time receiving the honor, but he was not in attendance.
The 58th CMA Awards will be available to watch on Hulu today (Nov. 21).
DISClaimer Single Reviews: Kacey Musgraves & Blake Shelton Share Disc Of The Day
/by Robert K OermannKacey Musgraves & Blake Shelton.
Country music is nothing if not diverse.
The take-away from this year’s CMA Awards show was how different our artists are from one another. Not to mention the fact that we have the best singers.
This week’s DISClaimer echoes that sonic diversity. We have folkies, rockers, hip-hoppers, honky-tonkers and crooners in today’s sampling of current country sounds. The King and Queen of this colorful parade are Kacey Musgraves and Blake Shelton, who share this week’s Disc of the Day honor.
Writers: Dan Couch/Kip Moore/Luke Preston/Oscar Charles; Producers: Kip Moore, Oscar Charles; Label: Virgin
– Thanks to the more than 100,000 tickets he sold in Australia, South Africa and other overseas destinations last year, Moore is this year’s CMA International Award winner. He rocks out splendidly on this Boss-like, blue-collar romp. Furious beats back his hoarse, urgent delivery of his finest lyric to date. Rock on, bro.
ADRIEN NUNEZ / “Apology Song”
Writers: Adrien Nunez/Jacob Bryant/John Davidson; Producer: John Davidson; Label: Warner Music Nashville/Warner Records
– Nunez is former college basketball star who set his athletic career aside in favor of music. His sound is a catchy, crunchy pop pastiche of sing-along woah-ohs and bouncy boyish folk simplicity. Double tracked vocals, toe-tapping beats, echoey production. In the Shaboozey neighborhood of country music.
KACEY MUSGRAVES / “The Architect”
Writers: Josh Osborne/Kacey Musgraves/Shane McAnally; Producers: Daniel Tashian, Ian Fitchuk, Kacey Musgraves; Label: Interscope Records/MCA Nashville
– Nominated for a Grammy as Best Country Song, this was a standout on Wednesday’s CMA Awards telecast. Musgraves delivers it in a folk-angel soprano as she muses about our Higher Power. Melodic, thoughtful, lilting, deep and utterly captivating. Also: Gorgeously produced, as is her entire Deeper Well collection. She hits Bridgestone Arena on Dec. 6 & 7 with Nickel Creek and Lord Huron in support.
DASHA / “Heartbreaker From Tennessee”
Writers: Anna Dasha Novotny/Jules Paymer/Oren Yoel; Producers: Bardo, Oren Yoel; Label: Warner Records
– Country’s new dance queen is back with a hooky rumbler that lays down a relentless mid-tempo groove while she reflects on her youthful tumble for a Volunteer State dude. “Austin” was a monster jam and this one demonstrates that zillion-seller was no fluke.
BLAKE SHELTON / “Texas”
Writers: Johnny Clawson/Josh Dorr/Kyle Sturrock/Lalo Guzman; Producer: Scott Hendricks; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– He’s such a superb country singer. With a song this cool, he’s unstoppable. Shelton’s debut on his new label turns some interesting rhythmic corners and sports super clever lyrics. Plus, you get a “Greek chorus” talking to him. “If she ain’t with me in Tennessee…she’s probably in Texas,” because that’s where ex’s go. This deserves to be a massive hit.
TANNER ADELL / “Religion”
Writers: Akil King/Anthony White/Parker Wellington/Stephen McGregor/Tanner Adell; Producer: Stephen McGregor; Label: ColorxStudios
– “Buckle Bunny” Adell does a change of pace and unveils her talent for ballad singing here. The gentle, soothing tune posits that it is faith that keeps us all going forward. Nicely done.
RODNEY ATKINS / “True South”
Writers: none listed; Producers: Jordan Schmidt, Rodney Atkins; Label: Curb Records
– This one’s a fist-pumping redneck anthem with shout-outs to guns, whiskey, backwoods living, religion, hunting, tractors, U.S.A., girls in cut-off jeans, barbecue……Did I miss anything?
GILLIAN WELCH & DAVID RAWLINGS / “Empty Trainload Of Sky”
Writers: David Rawlings/Gillian Welch; Producer: David Rawlings; Label: Acony Records
– This drowsy, haunting, minor-key, pristine outing is nominated for a Grammy as Americana Song of the Year. Its parent album, Woodland, snared a Folk nomination as well. These two performers make acoustic music soar and shine. Guitars ripple, brushed drums keep time and an organ sighs.
KANE BROWN & KATELYN BROWN / “Body Talk”
Writers: Amanda Renee Ibanez/Jonathan Capeci/Kane Brown/Nicholas Sainato/Nick Long; Producers: Jonathan Capeci, Nicholas Sainato; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Intimate, sexy and breathy. A ballad with a burbling undertow of percolating rhythm. Sensuous listening. Add this.
ZACH TOP / “I Never Lie”
Writers: Carson Chamberlain/Tim Nichols/Zach Top; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: Leo33
– Everything is peachy-keen in his world. He’s never been better. Things are going his way. Don’t you believe any of this. It’s all a false front for the One Who Got Away. As usual, he is a beacon of true country music. His guitar licks are answered by loads of steel, and his vocal is honky-tonk perfection. Bless him.
SHABOOZEY / “Good News”
Writers: Chibueze Collins Obinna/Jake Torrey/Michael Pollack/Nevin Sastry/Sam Roman/Sean Cook; Producers: Nevin Sastry, Sean Cook; Label: American Dogwood/EMPIRE
– He maintains his strummy, hand-clappy, sing-along vibe, but this time around he has something serious on his mind. The man is going through rough times, bearing the blues, being lonely, feeling the weight of the world and struggling in life. What he needs and what this song hopes for is some good news. Honesty and country authenticity married to bounding beats. Celebrate him: Thanks to “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Shaboozey is up for six Grammys this year.
MARCUS HUMMON & MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER / “I Dwell In Possibility”
Writer: Marcus Hummon; Producer: Marcus Hummon; Label: 3686 Records
– Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Hummon’s new EP is titled Songs for Emily because it is a collection of compositions he wrote based on the poetry of Emily Dickinson (1830-1886). On this languid meditation, his singing is joined by the jewel-like tones of Chapin. The crystal-clear acoustic production is outstanding. Very arty, yet very cool.
RINGO STARR & ALISON KRAUSS / “Thankful”
Writers: Bruce Sugar/Richard Starkey; Producers: Bruce Sugar, Ringo Starr, T Bone Burnett; Label: Roccabella
– Saturated with steel, this is a loping ride to redemption. Alison’s harmony vocal is very, very softly mixed.
Sony Music Nashville Hosts 2024 CMA Awards After Party
/by LB CantrellSony Music Nashville staff. Photo: Kaylee Steffel
Sony Music Nashville celebrated the 58th annual CMA Awards with an after party at Luke Combs‘ Category 10 in downtown Nashville.
Sony Music Nashville acts Brooks & Dunn and Old Dominion both set records with their respective wins at the awards ceremony. The newly-minted Vocal Duo of the Year are now the most-decorated artists in CMA history, tied with Chris Stapleton. Old Dominion’s seventh Vocal Group of the Year victory marks the longest consecutive winning streak in the category. Megan Moroney was named New Artist of the Year, taking home her first CMA Award.
The night was also filled with performances by the label’s artists, including Combs staging his Grammy-nominated hit “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma,” Moroney performing her single “Am I Okay?” and Brooks & Dunn recruiting Jelly Roll for a powerful rendition of their 2005 hit “Believe.”
Pictured (L–R): Sony Music Nashville’s Ken Robold, Taylor Lindsey, Parker Stacey, PunchBowl Entertainment’s Juli Griffith, Megan Moroney, Sony Music Nashville’s Randy Goodman, PunchBowl Entertainment’s Hayley Corbett and Columbia’s Julian Swirsky. Photo: Kaylee Steffel
Pictured (L–R): Morris Higham’s Will Hitchcock, Old Dominion’s Geoff Sprung, Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Sony Music Nashville’s Randy Goodman, Old Dominion’s Brad Tursi, Sony Music Nashville’s Taylor Lindsey and Ken Robold. Photo: Kaylee Steffel
Cody Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman, Old Dominion To Headline Country Thunder Alberta
/by Lorie HollabaughCody Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman and Old Dominion are set to headline Country Thunder Alberta, taking place Aug. 15–17 in the heart of downtown Calgary.
This will mark Johnson’s first Country Thunder Alberta appearance, and Zimmerman will return to the festival after performing in 2023. Old Dominion will make their Country Thunder Alberta headline debut, following their performance in 2017.
Ashley McBryde, Jake Owen, Riley Green and Clint Black join Canadian talent Tim Hicks, James Barker Band, Lindsay Ell and Owen Riegling to fill out the festival lineup.
“We can’t wait to bring this star-studded lineup to Calgary,” says Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhoffer. “Alberta is home to some of the most passionate country music fans in the world, and our top priority is to deliver world-class entertainment to them year after year. I think we’ve knocked it out of the park this year and I know fans will think so, too!”
Tickets are available now. For more information, click here.
Warner Music Nashville & Warner Records Celebrate 2024 CMA Awards
/by Madison HahnenPictured (L-R): Gregg Nadel (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN), Cody Johnson, Cris Lacy (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN) and Ashley McBryde.
Warner Music Nashville and Warner Records celebrated their artists’ wins and live performances during the 58th Annual CMA Awards during an after party.
Cody Johnson took home the trophy for Album of the Year for Leather, while Ashley McBryde, Bailey Zimmerman and Jamey Johnson performed live during the show.
After party attendees included Johnson, McBryde, Zimmerman, Teddy Swims, Gavin Adcock and more. Warner Music Nashville Co-Chairs/Co-Presidents Gregg Nadel and Cris Lacy were also in attendance, alongside Co-Chairman/CEO of Warner Records Aaron Bay-Schuck and Warner Records Co-Chairman/COO Tom Corson, among others.
In addition to the after party, Warner Music Nashville and Warner Records hosted a luncheon for its label roster and staff earlier in the day. Those in attendance included Randall King, Redferrin, Warren Zeiders, Dasha, SVP A&R Stephanie Wright, SVP Marketing & Analytics Victoria Mason, SVP/Creative Director Mike Dupree, SVP Radio & Commercial Partnerships Kristen Williams, SVP Legal & Business Affairs Patrick Sabatini and more.
Pictured (L-R): Stephanie Wright (SVP A&R, WMN), Victoria Mason (SVP Marketing & Analytics, WMN), Randall King, Mike Dupree (SVP/Creative Director, WMN), Gregg Nadel (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN), Kristen Williams (SVP Radio & Commercial Partnerships, WMN), Redferrin, Aaron Bay-Schuck (Co-Chairman/CEO, Warner Records), Cris Lacy (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN), Patrick Sabatini (SVP Legal & Business Affairs, WMN), Tom Corson (Co-Chairman/COO, Warner Records), Anna Cage (VP Radio, WMN), Warren Zeiders, Tom Martens (VP Radio Accounts, WMN) and Dasha.
Pictured (L-R): Gregg Nadel (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN), Cris Lacy (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN), Bailey Zimmerman, Aaron Bay-Schuck (Co-Chairman/CEO, Warner Records) and Tom Corson (Co-Chairman/COO, Warner Records).
Aaron Bay-Schuck (Co-Chairman/CEO, Warner Records) and Teddy Swims.
Pictured (L-R): Tom Corson (Co-Chairman/COO, Warner Records), Aaron Bay-Schuck (Co-Chairman/CEO, Warner Records), Gavin Adcock, Cris Lacy (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN) and Gregg Nadel (Co-Chair/Co-President, WMN)
Big Machine Label Group Commemorates 58th CMA Awards With ‘Gone Country’-Themed After Party
/by Liza AndersonPictured (L–R, back row): Chase McDaniel, Shaylen, Chris Janson, Jackson Dean, Lecade, Riley Green, Conner Smith, Ryan Hurd, Greylan James, Badflower’s Josh Katz and Noah Hicks; (L–R, front row): Mae Estes, Thomas Rhett, BMLG’s Scott Borchetta and Sandi Spika Borchetta, Carly Pearce and Mackenzie Carpenter. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for BMLG
Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) commemorated the 58th annual CMA Awards with an after party themed around Thomas Rhett‘s tune “Gone Country” last night (Nov. 20). The label and its roster celebrated first-time CMA Awards nominee Riley Green, who took home Musical Event of the Year for “You Look Like You Love Me” alongside Ella Langley, and his fellow winners into the morning.
Guests enjoyed goodies provided by event sponsors City National Bank, Pizza Hut, Jim Beam, Holtz Leather, Camino, Bass Pro Shop, AXS, House of Brandt, DIFF Eyewear, The Nash Collection, Goo Goo Clusters and Bud Light.
Earlier in the evening, Rhett teamed up with Teddy Swims for a mashup of “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman” and “Lose Control” before Green and Langley took the CMA Awards stage to perform their winning number. Additionally, Carly Pearce presented the Song of the Year honor, and Dierks Bentley treated the crowd to his top-20 rendition of “American Girl” from Petty Country: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty, which was released via Big Machine Records over the summer.
Pictured (L–R): Big Machine Records’ Erik Powell and Kris Lamb, Carly Pearce, BMLG’s Scott Borchetta, Riley Green, Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment’s Jimmy Harnen and BMLG’s Allison Jones. Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for BMLG
Pictured (L–R): The Valory Music Co.’s Ashley Sidoti, Conner Smith, G Major Management’s Virginia Bunetta, BMLG’s Scott Borchetta, Thomas Rhett, BMLG’s Allison Jones and The Valory Music Co.’s George Briner Photo: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for BMLG
CAA Hosts 2024 CMA Awards Watch Party
/by LB CantrellCAA’s Jeff Krones, Austin Snell and guests attend the CAA. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Creative Artists Agency
Creative Artists Agency (CAA) hosted its 2024 CMA Awards Viewing party at Blanco in Nashville in celebration of the 58th Annual CMA Awards last night (Nov. 20).
Attendees noshed on food and drinks catered by Blanco.
CAA’s Howie Nuchow and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey and guests attend CAA’s 2024 CMA Awards Viewing Party. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Creative Artists Agency
CAA’s Meredith Jones Long and Carter Faith attend CAA’s 2024 CMA Awards Viewing Party. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Creative Artists Agency
Elizabeth Nichols, Dylan Bourne, CAA’s Rick Roskin, Darryl Eaton, Cheryl Paglierani, Brian Manning attend CAA’s 2024 CMA Awards Viewing Party. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Creative Artists Agency
Restless Road, Joey Russ, CAA’s Sam Forbert, CAA’s Nigel Hassler attend CAA’s 2024 CMA Awards Viewing Party. Photo: Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Creative Artists Agency
Kacey Musgraves, Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit Among Lineup For Inaugural Zootown Music Festival
/by Lorie HollabaughKacey Musgraves, Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit and more are set to perform at the inaugural Zootown Music Festival, taking place July 4–5 at the Missoula Fairgrounds in Montana.
Nestled among five mountain ranges and three rivers, Missoula’s first major music festival will feature a lineup of over 20 performers, including Hozier, Mt. Joy, Lake Street Dive, Modest Mouse and Julien Baker & Torres, among others. Always On, Knitting Factory Presents and Shore Sound Entertainment will produce the festival in partnership with Destination Missoula and the University of Montana’s Entertainment Management program.
Additionally, half-day and full-day guided excursions in the area on the days leading up to and after the festival will be available as part of Zootown’s partnership with GuideTime, along with morning activities on show days. Excursion packages, premium lodging offerings as well as RV and camping accommodations can be purchased during general ticket sales tomorrow (Nov. 22). For more information, click here.
WME Celebrates 2024 CMA Award Winners At After Party
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): Kerri Edwards, Luke Bryan and Jay Williams attend WME’s CMA Awards After Party. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for WME
WME toasted to their roster’s wins and performances at the 58th Annual CMA Awards during a late-night after party at Fifth + Broadway’s Sixty Vines and One More Cocktail Club in Nashville.
WME clients took home trophies from half of the 12 categories, including Female, Male, Single, Song and Video of the Year. Clients also include hosts Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, and many of the night’s performers.
Pictured (L-R): Briley King, Marcus King, T.J. Osborne and Dasha attend WME’s CMA Awards After Party. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for WME
After party attendees included Gavin Adcock, Cooper Alan, Avery Anna, Maddox Batson, Brothers Osborne, Luke Bryan, Scarlett Burke, Colbie Caillat, Mackenzie Carpenter, Dasha, Jordan Davis, Daniel Diamond, Marcus King, Lanco, Dustin Lynch, Peyton Manning, Vincent Mason, Parker McCollum, Chase McDaniel, Kylie Morgan, Red Clay Strays, Lily Rose, Tigirlily Gold, Zach Top and Tucker Wetmore along with Co-Heads of WME’s Nashville office Becky Gardenhire, Joey Lee and Jay Williams, WME Co-Chairman Christian Muirhead, Endeavor President & COO Mark Shapiro, Endeavor Executive Chairman Patrick Whitesell and Endeavor CFO Jason Lublin.
Guests enjoyed handcrafted cocktails and wood-fired pizzas, elaborate charcuterie grazing tables, seafood and a vast selection of small plates. The WME Tattoo Shop (powered by Red Bull) was back by popular demand, and attendees had the opportunity to receive personalized leather luggage tags and passport portfolios courtesy of Delta Air Lines. Other sponsors included Bud Light, Branded Bills, Red Bull, Glamsquad, Truist Bank and Cresset Capital.
Pictured (L-R): Christian Muirhead, Peyton Manning, Mark Shapiro and Joey Lee attend the WME’s CMA Awards After Party. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for WME
Pictured (L-R): Mike Doyle, Zach Top, Tyler Burns and John Showfety attend WME’s CMA Awards After Party. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for WME
Pictured (L-R): Mark Shapiro, Jay Williams and Christian Muirhead attend WME’s CMA Awards After Party. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for WME
2024 CMA Awards Crowns New Winners, Showcases Fun Collaborations [Recap]
/by LB CantrellLuke Bryan, Peyton Manning and Lainey Wilson host The 58th Annual CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The 58th annual CMA Awards took over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 20) and included performances of some of the past year’s biggest hits and record-breaking wins.
Chris Stapleton accepts the award for Single of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Morgan Wallen won his first ever Entertainer of the Year trophy, while Megan Moroney was crowned New Artist of the Year. Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton tied for winning the most CMA Awards of all time, each with 19 total wins.
The night’s program kicked off with a rowdy bang, as Post Malone and Stapleton traded snarling verses of “California Sober” from Post’s blockbuster country album released this summer.
Post Malone performs “Yours” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Co-hosts Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning then appeared to get the show started. The shared banter about each of their roles as co-host, pointed out a guest of honor George Strait and shared that there were 31 first-time nominees.
Soon it was time to present the first award, Single of the Year. The trophy went to Stapleton, Dave Cobb and Vance Powell for “White Horse.”
“There are so many great and very popular songs in this category. I’m very humbled,” Stapleton said, marking the first of many acceptances speech he would go on to give last night.
Shaboozey performs a medley of “Highway” and “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Moroney turned Bridgestone Arena blue for her performance of new single “Am I Okay?” before the hosts returned. They shared a red-solo-cup toast to the late Toby Keith and then introduced Shaboozey to the CMA stage. The hitmaker played a bit of his new single “Highway” before thrilling the room with his record-breaking “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
The next award, Song of the Year, was presented to Stapleton and Dan Wilson for “White Horse.” Stapleton kept it brief, thanking his family and the voters, and then passed it on to Wilson.
Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims perform “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Woman” and “Lose Control” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
“Nashville, thank you for letting me come visit and write songs,” Wilson said. “Thanks to Dave, Chris and Morgane Stapleton for producing such a rocking version of the song.”
Ella Langley started her Musical Event-winning breakout hit “You Look Like You Love Me” seated in the audience next to its co-writer Aaron Raitiere. She strutted up to the stage with the ease of a veteran. When Riley Green joined her for his part, it was already a highlight of the evening.
Megan Moroney accepts the award for New Artist of the Year at the CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Another duo, Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims, joined voices for “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman.” They sounded great together as the tune morphed into Swims’ “Lose Control.” Luke Combs brought the house down with his Grammy-nominated “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma” from the Twisters movie.
The New Artist prize went to Moroney. She was emotional as she looked around the arena. “This means so much to me. I have an incredible team,” she shared, recognizing her team members. “I’m freaking out! Thank you!”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan took the stage for a beautiful rendition of their “Cowboys Cry Too.” Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood brought the power for “I’m Gonna Love You.” The Stapletons blended their voices in perfect harmony on “What Am I Gonna Do.”
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan perform “Cowboys Cry Too” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Kacey Musgraves performed her Grammy-nominated “The Architect,” before The Oak Ridge Boys appeared onstage to tribute their lost member Joe Bonsall. They then presented Vocal Group of the Year to Old Dominion. It was their seventh time clinching the trophy, the longest consecutive stretch of Group of the Year wins in CMA history.
“We just made history, that’s crazy,” Old Dominion frontman Matthew Ramsey said. “If you are an artist of any type or a creator or a musician, this is when the world needs you the most, when it’s weird like it is right now. Get out there and get together and create.”
Cody Johnson accepts the award for Album of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll joined Brooks & Dunn for a moving performance of “I Believe,” complete with a choir and string section, leading many artists in the audience to wine tears from their eyes. Post Malone then touched hearts with “She’s Yours.”
Album of the Year went to Cody Johnson for Leather. “There’s no way I could have created an album like this without great songwriters, without people that pour their heart and soul out every day on Music Row,” Johnson said before introducing producers Trent Willmon and Jack Clark to speak.
Wilson took a break from her hosting duties to perform “4x4xU” with a string section backing her. Bailey Zimmerman brought the WWE energy for his performance of “New To Country,” dropping onto his stage from the ceiling.
Brooks & Dunn accepts the award for Vocal Duo of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
The next award, Vocal Duo of the Year, went to Brooks & Dunn for the 15th time. They were clearly shocked, smiling as the crowd cheered them up to the podium.
“Time is undefeated. Not yet I guess,” Kix Brooks said.
The Strait tribute started with Wilson singing a bit of “Amarillo By Morning,” with Jenee Fleenor and Charlie Worsham backing her. Jamey Johnson shared his version of “Give It Away,” a song he and Bill Anderson co-wrote for “The King of Country Music.” Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum joined Johnson on stage for “Troubadour.”
Strait then hit the stage with Stapleton for “Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame.” All the artists joined together for Stapleton to present the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award to “true country music royalty.”
George Strait performs “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
When the crowd gave Straight time to talk, he thanked God, his team, band and crew and his family. He spoke about the longtime team members he’s lost over the past year, including manager Erv Woolsey, road manager Tom Foote and band member Gene Elders.
“I want to thank the CMAs for adding my name to the incredible artists on this small list of recipients carrying the name of the icon, Willie Nelson,” Strait said. “I want to thank these great artists who performed some of the songs I’ve recorded over the years. It’s amazing to hear y’all do them—I’m so glad I got them before you.”
Ashley McBryde sang Kris Krisofferson‘s “Help Me Make It Through the Night” in tribute of the late legend.
Male Vocalist of the Year went to Stapleton, his eighth time claiming the honor.
“I’m out of things to say. I love all of y’all so much. Thank you CMAs for giving this award and all of y’all for voting for me,” the entertainer said.
Eric Church performs “Darkest Hour” at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Host Bryan took to the stage for a performance of “Love You, Miss You, Mean It” before Combs appeared on stage to introduce the next performer, Eric Church. He shared that the two North Carolinians raised $24 million for hurricane relief with their benefit concert, and praised Church for donating royalties for his next song in perpetuity for the cause. Church then performed the philanthropic song, “Darkest Hour.”
Olympian Simone Biles presented Female Vocalist of the Year to Wilson, her third time winning the honor.
“Man, this community has wrapped its arms around me and lifted me up from the get-go,” Wilson said. “I’ve always been told if you feel like you’ve got a gift, you’re supposed to share it, and I think that means whether you drive a tractor or pour coffee, make people smile or laugh, whatever that is I think you’re supposed to share that gift.”
Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at the 58th CMA Awards. Photo: Courtesy of CMA
Jelly Roll and Keith Urban came together for a fiery performance of “Liar.” Bluegrass virtuosos Molly Tuttle, Sierra Hull and Bronwyn Keith-Hynes appeared alongside Dierks Bentley for his cover of Tom Petty‘s “American Girl.”
The night’s top honor, Entertainer of the Year, went to Morgan Wallen. It was his first time receiving the honor, but he was not in attendance.
The 58th CMA Awards will be available to watch on Hulu today (Nov. 21).
Scot Sherrod Joins Anthem Music Publishing As Senior Director Of Creative [Exclusive]
/by LB CantrellScott Sherrod
Anthem Entertainment has hired industry veteran Scot Sherrod as Senior Director of Creative for the company’s Music Publishing division.
With nearly 30 years in music publishing, Sherrod brings with him a breadth of experience, having spent the past few years consulting for Sony Music Publishing, Jonas Group Publishing, Barry Coburn’s Ten Ten & Banz Music and Moraine Music Group.
“It is so exciting to be part of such an amazing publishing company as Anthem Entertainment–what an amazing catalog,” Sherrod shares. “I have known Noah Dewey and Gilles Goddard for over 20 years, and my respect runs deep for them both. I’m grateful and honored for this opportunity and look forward to working with the entire team to add value to Anthem’s ever-increasing brand.”
Sherrod began his publishing career at Muy Bueno Music Group, after which he spent 12 years at Major Bob Music, and Bob Doyle & Associates. In 2012, in conjunction with entrepreneur Suzane Strickland, Sherrod helped launch boutique publishing company, RareSpark Media Group, where he spent 11 years signing and developing a wide array of talent including the likes of Walker Hayes, whose 2021 smash “Fancy Like” topped Billboard‘s year-end country songs chart.
Sherrod was also instrumental in pitching the song “More Than A Memory” to Garth Brooks. The tune became the first country song to enter all charts at No. 1. He has also attained cuts by artists such as Luke Combs, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, George Strait, Blake Shelton, Cody Johnson, Jordan Davis, Jason Aldean, Pentatonix, Carrie Underwood, Ashley McBryde, The Chicks, Rascal Flatts, Kelly Clarkson, Mickey Guyton and Trisha Yearwood, to name a few.
“Scott Sherrod builds careers. He’s the quintessential music publisher with an impressive list of accomplishments that speak for themselves,” says Dewey, Vice President, Creative for Anthem Music Publishing Nashville. “He will be an integral part of the ongoing success of Anthem Entertainment. We’re very lucky to have him join our creative team!”