54th Annual CMA Awards Recap

In true 2020 fasion, the CMA Awards were anything but normal. However, the show brought a much needed change from what we experienced with previous awards shows this year. The biggest change? There was actually an audience. While it was small, and limited to nominees & performers, it made all the difference. It was an initmate setting, but it provided a scense of normalcy. As show co-host Reba McEintire said, it was her favorite Wednesday night of 2020. I agree, Reebs!

A few of our favorite moments are…

Tributes to those we lost.

The show started with a Charlie Daniels tribute from Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Ashley McBryde, and Jason Aldean who finished the medley out with an awesome rendition of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” Little Big Town honored Kenny Rogers with their performance of “Sweet Music Man.”

Charley Pride & Jimmie Allen Duet

In a surprise performance, Charley Pride took the stage with Jimmie Allen for an incredible duet. That is a moment that Allen will never forget, and it was so special to see it happen before us on TV. Pride was then given the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxM4GDimobE

Ingrid Andress

One of my favorite moments of the night was the emotional performance of “More Hearts Than Mine” by Ingrid Andress. She captured the attention of the audience in person and at home, but it was the ending that got to me most. The emotion of the song and probably the significance of the moment in her career got the best of her as she broke into tears. If it weren’t for COVID, I’m sure she would have received some hugs!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVNlC1UyJDg

“Be a Light”

What is probably the most needed song of 2020, “Be a Light,” was performed by Reba McEntire, Thomas Rhett, and Christian artist Chris Tomlin.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bA15ENS606U

Carly Pearce + Charles Kelley

Carly Pearce and Lee Brice won the award for Musical Event of the YEar with their duet “I Hope You’re Happy Now.” Unfortunately Brice tested positive for COVID-19, so he could not perform with Pearce. If anyone had to fill in, we can’t complain that it was Lady A’s Charles Kelley. (Lady A also had to cancel their attendance due to COVID within their camp. Thankfully the pre-recorded the performance.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ejt6j6wXXOA

Eric Church – Entertainer of the Year

I’m pretty sure Luke Combs, who was also nominated for the biggest award of the night, was more excited for The Chief’s win than Church himself. It was a big win for Church, but it was his acceptance speech that stood out the most to me.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TeJVjkkDLA

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