2023 CMT Awards: Host, First Performer, & Venue Announced

We're about five months away from one of the biggest ceremonies in country music! CMT just announced that its 2023 Awards will move from Nashville, TN to Austin, TX, held in the Moody Center. It will take place on April 2, airing on CBS.

The special announcement actually occurred in the Moody Center itself, during Carrie Underwood's show there as part of her Denim & Rhinestones tour. Kelsea Ballerini joined her onstage as a surprise guest, presenting her with a Denim & Rhinestones-themed belt. Ballerini then congratulated Underwood for her phenomenal total of 25 CMT wins - more than any other artist in history - and broke the news to fans. Naturally, shocked Austin crowd began cheering loudly.

At that time, the two confirmed that Ballerini will return for her third year to host the show, and Underwood will kickstart the lineup of performers. This already sounds like an amazing show which we absolutely can't wait for! As much as we enjoyed the backyard performance of "HEARTFIRST" which began her SUBJECT TO CHANGE era, we really hope Ballerini doesn't get COVID this time. And we can't wait to see the spectacular show Underwood will surely put on with her performance.

"We hear everything's bigger in Texas," said Ballerini. "We're ready, y'all!" And oh my god, we are too. The countdown is on! 2023 CMTs, here we come!