Country Music Shines Bright at the 58th Annual CMA Awards
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The 58th Annual CMA Awards, held live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, was a night to remember. Filled with stellar performances, heartwarming collaborations, and history-making wins, the show celebrated the very best of country music.
New Faces and Familiar Favorites Take Center Stage
Morgan Wallen was the biggest winner of the evening, claiming the coveted Entertainer of the Year award for the first time. Megan Moroney, a rising star, took home the New Artist of the Year trophy, showcasing the ever-evolving landscape of country music.
The night was also marked by a tie for most CMA wins of all time. Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton each added to their impressive collections, reaching a total of 19 wins apiece.
Laughter and Music Fill the Arena
The evening was expertly hosted by the dynamic trio of Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning, and Lainey Wilson. Their effortless humor and undeniable chemistry kept the audience entertained throughout the show.
Memorable Performances Captivate the Audience
From electrifying solo sets by top artists like Luke Combs, Ashley McBryde, and Kacey Musgraves to groundbreaking collaborations featuring Post Malone, Chris Stapleton, and surprise guest Carrie Underwood, the performances were nothing short of phenomenal.
A special highlight of the show was the celebration of 2024 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, George Strait. Strait himself made a surprise appearance alongside country music royalty like Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, and Chris Stapleton.
A Night of Recognition and Celebration
The show awarded winners in 12 categories, with presentations made by a diverse group of celebrities including athletes, actors, and fellow musicians. A complete list of winners can be found on the CMA website.
Where to Catch the Encore
Fans can relive the night’s biggest performances on YouTube. Starting tomorrow, the full show will be available to stream on Hulu.
The 58th Annual CMA Awards was a night that solidified country music’s place in the entertainment world. It was a celebration of talent, collaboration, and enduring legacy.
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Morgan Wallen
SINGLE OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artist, Producers and Mix Engineer
“White Horse” – Chris Stapleton
Producers: Dave Cobb, Chris Stapleton, Morgane Stapleton
Mix Engineer: Vance Powell
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artist, Producer and Mix Engineer
Leather – Cody Johnson
Producer: Trent Willmon
Mix Engineer: Jack Clarke
SONG OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Songwriters
“White Horse”
Songwriters: Chris Stapleton, Dan Wilson
FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR
Lainey Wilson
MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR
Chris Stapleton
VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR
Old Dominion
VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR
Brooks & Dunn
MUSICAL EVENT OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artists and Producer
“you look like you love me” – Ella Langley (feat. Riley Green)
Producer: Will Bundy
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR
Charlie Worsham – Guitar
MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Award goes to Artist and Director
“Wildflowers and Wild Horses” – Lainey Wilson
Director: Patrick Tracy
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Megan Moroney