Best Moments from CMA History
It is once again one of our favorite times of the year. Fall means cooler weather, flannels, apple crisp macchiatos, and of course country music's biggest night - the CMA awards. While we count down the days to the 2022 ceremony, let's look back on our favorite moments from CMA Awards History!
1. Miranda Lambert's 2021 opening performance
What a way to kick off the ceremony. With a high-energy, captivating medley of her greatest hits like "Little Red Wagon" and "Mama's Broken Heart," Lambert truly stole the show with this number.
2. Carly Pearce accepting the 2021 Female Vocalist Of The Year trophy
Pearce couldn't contain her tears when her presenters announced her as the winner. Almost falling to her knees, Pearce expressed her gratitude and surprise upon receiving the award. "Country music saved me in a time that I needed it and I want you guys to know this is all I've ever wanted in the entire world," said this queen. We feel the same way about her - 29 has saved countless fans in the time when they needed it most, with the album providing comfort, emotional support, and a safe space. 2022 is Pearce's second year nominated for the Female Vocalist Of The Year trophy, and she truly deserves to win again.
3. Brothers Osborne performing the sentimental "Younger Me" in 2021
Fresh off of winning Duo Of The Year, the "Stay A Little Longer" hitmakers delivered a moving rendition of "Younger Me." T.J. Osborne dedicated the emotional track to his own younger self, reflecting on his personal and musical journey over the years. The star had recently come out as gay at the time; his continued success in a historically heteronormative genre truly shows that love wins. “I always truthfully felt it would never be possible for me because of my sexuality to be here and I just wish my younger me could see me now,” reflected the star.
4. Maren Morris performing "The Bones" and lifting everyone's spirits in 2020
Morris had already solidified her place as a trailblazer in the industry, following the success of her debut album Hero and Zedd collaboration "The Middle." Due to the COVID pandemic, the GIRL era turned out different than any of us could have imagined. However, our unfortunate situation gave a new life to her 2019 single, "The Bones," even putting it on mainstream radio. Many fans expressed that it saved them during the uncertain hard times the coronavirus brought. Rightfully, this anthem won both Single Of The Year and Song Of The Year in 2020, and Morris herself won Female Vocalist Of The Year. The queen delivered a sensational performance of the hit, moving us all to tears.
5. The women of country's 2019 opening performance
The true definition of girl power. Female country icons from multiple generations - including the hosts Carrie Underwood, Dolly Parton, and Reba McEntire - came together to deliver a moving medley. The ensemble performed timeless classics like "Delta Dawn" and "Independence Day." This is a performance we'll never get tired of watching over and over again.
6. The "homecoming queen" / "Girl Crush" mashup at the 2019 Awards
Talk about a flawless transition between two breathtaking songs. First, superstar Kelsea Ballerini delivered an emotional, moving performance of her hit "homecoming queen." In arguably one of her best tracks, she sends important messages about how we tend to hide our true selves behind facades. Then, Lindsay Ell joined the queen to begin singing Little Big Town's "Girl Crush." A star-studded ensemble soon joined them, in one of the most memorable performances in CMA history.
7. Johnny Cash Tribute at the 2003 Awards
Johnny Cash, who was up for numerous awards in that year, unfortunately passed away just shy of the ceremony. Still, the country titan won three prestigious trophies - Album of the Year, Music Video Of The Year and Single Of The Year. Fellow greats, including Willie Nelson and Hank Williams, Jr., honored him in moving renditions of his biggest hits. Reminiscing on this moment is especially sentimental right now, as a similar tribute performance will likely take place at this year's awards for Loretta Lynn.
If the past years' ceremonies are any indication, the 2022 CMA Awards are bound to include some iconic and historic moments. We're just about a week away from the ceremony now! We absolutely can't wait to see this year's performances and results.