The cable network, Country Music Television or CMT, hosted on October 13th the celebration in honor of the Artists of the Year. The event took place in from Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center. It honored Chris Stapleton, Gabby Barrett, Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini, and Luke Combs.
These are the five “Artists of the Year” that “collectively dominated the last 12 months in country music.” Via a press release, they stated that these artists “leaded across all CMT platforms, scored chart-topping albums and singles, while simultaneously finding creative ways to connect with fans and meet the personal and professional challenges posed by the pandemic.” For the event, they showed never-before-seen performances, collaborations with special guests, and congratulatory moments.
Moreover, the Artists of the Year ceremony returns to its original format. This year, the panel didn’t choose the artists depending on their inspiration from the frontlines of the pandemic.
Chris Stapleton was very emotional and grateful
During his speech, Chris Stapleton thanked everybody. The country icon was moved and humbled for “a lot of love in the room tonight.”
Stapleton said to be “grateful to be in the room with those people […] and to play music.” He added “I’m so grateful to the fans, to CNT, to my wife and my children and all my family who support me through all this. It’s special.” Then, referring to the other artists in the room, he said that he is inspired by their performances, words and story. “I’m humbled to be in the room with some of the folks I’m here with tonight. It’s meaningful,” he said with tears in his eyes. In the same evening, Chris Stapleton also won Album of the Year at the 2021 ACM Awards.
Kelsea Ballerini and Kane Brown presented the event
On Chris Stapleton’s side, Gabby Barrett, Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini, and Luke Combs were honoured. Not only they delighted us with spectacular performances, but Kelsea Ballerini and Kane Brown also hosted the celebration. Kelsea Ballerini performed I Quit Drinking with Paul Klein. Kane Brown presented a moving version of Three Wooden Crosses.
“Country music really is everyone’s music”
The event also offered the exhibition of Gabby Barrett and Luke Combs. Gabby Barrett performed The Good Ones. The singer was accompanied by the guitar and voice of Cade Foehner. She congratulated all the artists present that night.
Luke Combs performed Forever After All. “This is for the fans, this is for country music, this is for everybody. I love you.”
Moreover, during the night, many famous artists delighted and moved the audience with successful country songs. Among the others, Mickey Guyton & Yola, that performed an incredible version of the song Remember Her Name. “Country music really is everyone’s music,” said Guyton.
Click here to have a glimpse of the magical night!
