Country music’s biggest night returned to Nashville Wednesday, Nov. 20, for the 58th CMA Awards, delivering show-stopping performances, heartfelt tributes and history-making wins. From Post Malone and Chris Stapleton’s electrifying opening performance to emotional honors for George Strait, the event showcased the best of country music while embracing its future.
Post Malone and Stapleton kicked off the night with a soulful duet of “California Sober,” setting the stage for an evening filled with unforgettable moments.
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This year’s hosts, Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning and first-time host Lainey Wilson, kept the energy high with their humor and camaraderie. One standout moment was their tribute to the late Toby Keith, who passed away this year at 62 from stomach cancer. They toasted him with red Solo cups, a nod to his hit song “Red Solo Cup.”
Rising star Shaboozey made a splash with his debut CMA Awards performance, singing “Highway” and “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” His set earned a standing ovation and proved why he’s already nominated for five 2025 Grammy Awards.
Brooks & Dunn teamed up with Jelly Roll for an emotional performance of “Believe,” leaving both the live audience and viewers at home in tears. Social media buzzed with reactions, calling the moment one of the night’s most moving.
Morgan Wallen, the night’s top nominee with seven nods, took home Entertainer of the Year. Although Wallen was not present, his win marked another milestone in his successful career. Cody Johnson also had reason to celebrate, winning his first CMA Album of the Year award for “Leather.”
Stapleton dominated the awards with wins for Single of the Year, Song of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year. Meanwhile, country music legend Strait was honored with the CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. The “King of Country Music” received a heartfelt tribute from fellow artists, celebrating his career and influence on the genre.
New artists also took center stage, with Megan Moroney winning New Artist of the Year. She beat out a strong group of nominees, including Shaboozey, Nate Smith and Bailey Zimmerman. Moroney’s win came shortly after her performance of “Am I Ok.”
On the red carpet, Olympian Simone Biles wowed in a shimmering silver gown, presenting Female Vocalist of the Year to Wilson later in the evening. Co-host Bryan opted for a classic pinstripe suit, while Shaboozey made a statement in mint green.
With its mix of first-time nominees, powerful performances and emotional tributes, the CMA Awards 2024 honored the best of country music while embracing its ever-evolving future.
