Catherine’s Hot Takes On The CMA Awards
I am a sucker for these country awards shows. I am keenly aware that there “allegedly” are subtle and not so subtle political undertones ; is it too “PC”? In my opinion yes it is, but I still love to watch the show. There are always redeeming moments for me. There are always a few performances that blow me away or artists who really deserve a win. And I love to see it.
Our boy Luke Bryan was solo hosting, well sort of. They kind of made a joke out of him needing some help throughout the night and honestly he really could have used a co host. He sees a squirrel and he follows it, metaphorically speaking of course. I loved his dad bod. Loved it. I think he is precious , he struggled here and there but he was adorable as always.
Miranda came out strong in that medley. I needed “Kerosene” and “Little Red Wagon” in my life from her and I am glad she included those. She looked great and I loved that blue pantsuit.
The first side eye of the night came from Carrie Underwood. Luke Bryan made a comment about covid immunizations and made a veiled reference to Aaron Rodgers scandal. Her husband has defended Aaron and Carrie did not appear to be pleased.
Then the awards started to get handed out and it was clear it was Chris Stapleton’s night. He won for Single of the Year,Album of the Year, and Song of the Year and Male vocalist of the year. Vocal Group of the Year went to Old Dominion and I loved that. My pick for vocal duo of the year was Dan +Shay, it went to Brothers Osborne. Entertainer of the Year went to Luke Combs.
I was really happy to see Jimmie Allen win in the new artist of the year category. He beat out Ingrid Andress, Gabby Barrett, Mickey Guyton and Hardy. Jimmie is an amazing singer songwriter and he deserves that beautiful crystal trophy. His acceptance speech was precious.
One of my favorite performances of the night was Eric Church , “Heart on Fire” that he performed with his frequent background singer Joanna Cotten. She was having a ball and can she ever wail. I do not love every single thing he does but I do love that song.
I have to say, and I watched it a couple of times, I did not hear any of the artists thanking country radio. Some artists always do when they win but none of these did. Not everyone gets all their exposure from Spotify or the like; I would be willing to bet that most people first hear this music on the radio. Interesting.
My favorite win of the night was Carly Pearce winning female vocalist of the year. She clearly was shocked and her acceptance speech was truly from the heart.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGAbwsMxqUc
