Carrie Underwood performs at the 2007 CMA Awards. The reigning Female Vocalist of the Year is up for the award again this year!
Photo By: John Russell / CMA
The CMA Awards (Country Music's Biggest Night)Airs Live on ABC, Wednesday, November 12!
“Good Time”
Alan Jackson
Directed by Trey Fanjoy
Watch the video here...Good Time
“Stay”
Sugarland
Directed by Shaun Silva
Watch the video here...Stay
“Waitin’ On A Woman”
Brad Paisley featuring Andy Griffith
Directed by Jim Shea and Peter Tilden
Watch the video here...Waitin' on A Woman
“You’re Gonna Miss This”
Trace Adkins
Directed by Peter Zavadil
Watch the video here...You're Gonna Miss This
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR
Jerry Douglas – Dobro
Paul Franklin – Steel Guitar
Dann Huff – Guitar
Brent Mason – Guitar
Mac McAnally – Guitar
Who's Performing!
Keith Urban
Carrie Underwood
Reigning "Entertainer of the Year," Kenny Chesney, will entertain the crowd at the 2008 CMA's.
Photo By: John Russell / CMA
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Taylor Swift
Legendary Country/Rock group, The Eagles, performed at the 2007 CMA Awards. They return for a repeat performance this year.
Photo By: John Russell / CMA
The Eagles
"The King of Country," George Strait,(seen here performing at the 2007 CMA Awards) will be a performer at the 2008 CMA's.
Photo By: John Russell / CMA
George Strait
Brooks & Dunn
Alan Jackson
Miranda Lambert
Sugarland
Trace Adkins Kid Rock at the CMA's? You betcha! His Southern Rock style with a Country Rock Flavor is always a crowd pleaser.
Photo Provided By: Webster PR
Kid Rock
Lady Antebellum
The Wailers
Meet Your Hosts
Photo Provided by: The CMA/Andrew Eccles.
Carrie Underwood
"I am so excited to host a show I grew up watching, and am so thrilled to spend this night with the fans and Brad," says Underwood. "It's going to be a party!"
Underwood received two CMA nominations in 2008, including Female Vocalist and Album of the Year for her second album, Carnival Ride, produced by Mark Bright and featuring four songs co-written by the artist. This was her first nomination in the Album category. She has received nine career nominations since her first in 2006, and has won a total of four CMA Awards. In addition to her two wins as Female Vocalist (2006 and 2007), she also received the Horizon Award in 2006 and Single of the Year for "Before He Cheats" in 2007.
After winning "American Idol" in 2005, Underwood became one of the most popular recording artists in the nation. Her debut album, Some Hearts, is the biggest selling "American Idol" debut project to date, having sold more than seven million albums in the United States. With the release of her current album Carnival Ride, she has now sold more than 10 million albums in less than three years. She was the best-selling female Country artist for three consecutive years (2005, 2006 and 2007) and has had seven consecutive No. 1 Country singles. Underwood is currently headlining her "Carnival Ride" tour, scheduled to hit 51 cities this fall.
"We are excited to have our reigning Male and Female Vocalist host the CMA Awards this year," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "In addition to their musical talent, Brad's quick wit and Carrie's gracefulness will serve them well in this role. CMA is happy to offer both of them their first opportunity to host a nationally televised network awards show. "
Photo Provided by: The CMA/David McClister
Brad Paisley
"I'm thrilled to have this opportunity to host the Awards show," says Paisley. "We're going to have a good time - start to finish."
Paisley received four nominations in 2008, including Entertainer; Male Vocalist, which he won last year; Song for his self-written "Letter to Me;" and Music Video of the Year for "Waitin' on a Woman" (featuring Andy Griffith), directed by Jim Shea and Peter Tilden. Paisley has won nine CMA Awards since his first nominations in 2000, including Horizon (2000); Male Vocalist (2007); and Album of the Year for Time Well Wasted (2006). He also won Musical Event twice, first in 2004 with Alison Krauss for "Whiskey Lullaby," and second in 2006 for "When I Get Where I'm Going" with Dolly Parton; Vocal Event in 2001 for "Too Country" with Bill Anderson, George Jones and Buck Owens; and Music Video of the Year three times, first in 2002 for "I'm Gonna Miss Her (The Fishin' Song);" second in 2004 for "Whiskey Lullaby" (again with Krauss), and third in 2007 for "Online."
Billboard named Paisley one of the five hot headliners (of any genre) to watch in 2007. That same year, Pollstar ranked his "Bonfires and Amplifiers" tour as the No. 2 Country tour in total attendance. This year's successful "Hershey's Presents the Paisley Party" tour has already been extended into the first few months of 2009. The West Virginia native recently celebrated total sales of 10 million albums thus far in his career. He also recently achieved his eighth consecutive (and twelfth overall) No. 1 single with "Waitin' on a Woman." His new album, the guitar-driven, mostly instrumental Play, will be in stores Nov. 4, featuring the current single "Start a Band," a duet with Keith Urban.
Underwood toured with Paisley in 2006, and the two became fast friends. The artists, who are both members of the Grand Ole Opry, reunited last year to record the duet "Oh Love" for Paisley's most recent album, 5th Gear.
Don't forget to tune into on Wednesday, November 12 at 8:00PM (7:00PM Central)!!!
Tickets to the CMA Awards
You can experience all the excitement of the CMA Awards live and in person! Tickets are still available for this incredible show. Visit Ticketmaster for more information. Head to www.Ticketmaster.com to get your tickets now!
News
Dateline: October 20, 2008
TRIVIA FOR “THE 42nd ANNUAL CMA AWARDS”
Male Vocalist of the Year
"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" will air live Wednesday, Nov. 12 (8:00-11:00 PM/EST) on the ABC Television Network from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Tenn. Each week leading up to "Country Music's Biggest NightTM," CMA will spotlight one of the Award categories with trivia about this year's nominees and past winners.
One of the highlights of the CMA Awards each year is the presentation of the Male Vocalist of the Year Award.
2008 Male Vocalist of the Year Nominees
Kenny Chesney
Alan Jackson
Brad Paisley
George Strait
Keith Urban
Which 2008 Male Vocalist of the Year nominee solely wrote all 17 tracks on his current album?
Answer: Alan Jackson is the only 2008 Male Vocalist of the Year nominee that exclusively wrote every song on his current album Good Time. Jackson holds the record of having the most career CMA Awards nominations with 79.
Which 2008 Male Vocalist of the Year nominee started his career at an early age by opening for Country legends?
Answer: Brad Paisley began his career as a musician at the age of 8. After learning the guitar with lessons from his grandfather, he was opening for Country superstars such as The Judds and George Jones by age 13 at the Capitol Music Hall in Wheeling, W.Va.
Which 2008 Male Vocalist of the Year nominee was featured in a music video of fellow2008 Male Vocalist of the Year nominee Alan Jackson before he had released his own debut album?
Answer: Keith Urban was a featured guitarist in the music video for Alan Jackson's 1993 hit "Mercury Blues". Urban's first album debuted six years later in 1999, but he has also showcased his guitar skills for additional CMA Award winners including Brooks & Dunn and Dixie Chicks.
Which nominee for the 2008 Male Vocalist of the Year can claim the title of "doctor"?
Answer: George Strait has the privilege of being able to use Dr. Strait as an official title. Strait received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Texas State University, his alma mater, in 2006. The university grants honorary degrees to individuals that have achieved astonishing levels of success. Strait graduated from Texas State in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in agriculture.
Which 2008 Male Vocalist of the Year nominee is set to launch his own rum?
Answer: Kenny Chesney recently decided to collaborate with Constellation Spirits to develop, market and advertise his own premium rum. The rum is scheduled to hit store shelves in 2010. Constellation Spirits is the producer of Corona beer, which sponsored Chesney's 2008 Poets & Pirates Tour.
"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Paul Miller is the Director. David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.
Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards, including a stereo-radio simulcast of the gala event. American Airlines is the official airline of the 2008 CMA Awards. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Mary Kay® is the Official Beauty Sponsor of the 2008 CMA Awards.
Dateline: October 16, 2008
THE EAGLES WILL PERFORM ON “THE 42nd ANNUAL CMA AWARDS”
The Eagles will perform on "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards," which airs live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Wednesday, Nov. 12 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network.
Previously announced performers for "Country Music's Biggest NightTM" include co-hosts Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, along with Trace Adkins, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney and The Wailers, Alan Jackson, Kid Rock, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban.
"We were honored last year when the Eagles chose the CMA Awards to give their first televised Awards performance," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "We are excited to welcome them back again this year as both performers and nominees."
The Eagles are nominated for CMA Vocal Group of the Year. This is their third nomination in that category, following nominations in 1976 and 1977. In 1993, Eagles' drummer Don Henley was nominated for CMA Vocal Event of the Year with Trisha Yearwood for "Walkaway Joe," which the two performed together during the 1992 CMA Awards. The band gave their first performance on a televised awards show on the 2007 CMA Awards. They were also the inspiration for the CMA 1994 Album of the Year, Common Thread: The Songs of the Eagles. The group has sold more than 120 million albums worldwide. Their current album is Long Road Out of Eden.
Tickets for the 2008 CMA Awards are on sale now and can be purchased by logging on to www.ticketmaster.com; calling (615) 255-9600; or in person at the Sommet Center box office, 501 Broadway (corner of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, in Nashville). Ticket prices begin at $110 for Bronze-level seating (upper level); $327.75 for Silver-level seating (club level); and $382.50 for Gold-level seating (lower level). All prices include sales tax but exclude applicable service/handling fees.
"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Paul Miller is the Director. David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.
Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards, including a stereo-radio simulcast of the gala event. American Airlines is the official airline of the 2008 CMA Awards. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Mary Kay® is the Official Beauty Sponsor of the 2008 CMA Awards.
Dateline: October 16, 2008
ADDITIONAL PERFORMERS ANNOUNCED FOR “THE 42nd ANNUAL CMA AWARDS”
Trace Adkins, Kid Rock, and Lady Antebellum to Perform; The Wailers Join Previously Announced Kenny Chesney Performance
All roads lead to Nashville as additional artists join the celebration known as "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards." Trace Adkins, Kid Rock, Lady Antebellum, and The Wailers join the list of performers on "Country Music's Biggest NightTM."
Previously announced performers include co-hosts Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, along with Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban.
"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" airs live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Wednesday, Nov. 12 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network
"These artists and their songs had a huge impact on Country Music this year," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "We are excited to spotlight them on the CMA Awards."
Adkins is nominated for Single and Music Video of the Year for "You're Gonna Miss This." The multi-week No. 1 single was produced by Frank Rogers and the video was directed by Peter Zavadil. Adkins, who also became a television star earlier this year with his appearances on "Celebrity Apprentice," recently appeared in the movie "An American Carol." His current single is "Muddy Water," and the music video features an appearance by his "Apprentice" pal, actor Stephen Baldwin. The song is the first single from his upcoming album X (TEN), due in stores Nov. 25.
Kid Rock is no stranger to the CMA Awards, having been nominated along with Sheryl Crow in 2003 for Vocal Event of the Year for their hit song "Picture." The artist, who has sold more than 25 million albums, also served as a presenter on last year's Awards. Kid Rock is currently near the top of the Country singles chart with his hit "All Summer Long," from his album Rock N Roll Jesus.
Lady Antebellum received their first two CMA nominations this year with New Artist and Vocal Group of the Year. The trio, consisting of Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley and Hillary Scott, formed in 2006. Their self-titled debut landed at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart earlier this year. If the band wins a trophy, it would make Scott a second generation winner as her mother, Linda Davis, won the CMA Vocal Event of the Year Award in 1994 along with Reba McEntire for their performance of "Does He Love You." Lady Antebellum's current single is "Lookin' For a Good Time."
The Wailers will join the previously announced Chesney in the first live televised performance of their No. 1 collaboration, "Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven," from Chesney's upcoming album Lucky Old Sun. The renowned Jamaican musical group, which started as the backing band for Bob Marley, will be making their CMA Awards debut.
Tickets for the 2008 CMA Awards are on sale now and can be purchased by logging on to www.ticketmaster.com; calling (615) 255-9600; or in person at the Sommet Center box office, 501 Broadway (corner of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, in Nashville). Ticket prices begin at $110 for Bronze-level seating (upper level); $327.75 for Silver-level seating (club level); and $382.50 for Gold-level seating (lower level). All prices include sales tax but exclude applicable service/handling fees
"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Paul Miller is the Director. David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.
Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards, including a stereo-radio simulcast of the gala event. American Airlines is the official airline of the 2008 CMA Awards. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Mary Kay® is the Official Beauty Sponsor of the 2008 CMA Awards.
Dateline: October 14, 2008
TRIVIA FOR "THE 42nd ANNUAL CMA AWARDS"
New Artist of the Year
The "42nd Annual CMA Awards" will air on Wednesday, Nov. 12 (8:00-11:00 PM/EST) on the ABC Television Network live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Tenn. Each week leading up to "Country Music's Biggest NightTM," CMA will spotlight one of the Award categories with trivia about this year's nominees and past winners.
The CMA New Artist of the Year Award, formally known as the Horizon Award, is awarded to the artist, whether individual or a group of two or more, who is known primarily as a Country artist, who has for the first time demonstrated the most significant creative growth and development in overall chart and sales activity (of a debut or sophomore album), live performance, professionalism and/or national media recognition related to the launch of their career.
2008 New Artist of the Year Award Nominees
Jason Aldean
Rodney Atkins
Lady Antebellum
James Otto
Kellie Pickler
Which New Artist of the Year nominee received a unique opportunity to bowl in the President's bowling alley at the White House?
Answer: Rodney Atkins performed at a National Adoption Day celebration last year with President George W. Bush in attendance at the White House. In addition, Atkins received a VIP tour of the White House and even had the chance to bowl in the president's personal bowling alley. Atkins performed two songs for the invitation-only audience, with an additional song being requested by President Bush.
Which New Artist of the Year nominee recorded an exclusive track for the2008 Beijing Olympics soundtrack?
Answer: Lady Antebellum recently recorded "I Was Here" for the AT&T Team USA Soundtrack, which featured songs that motivated Team USA athletes at the recent Beijing Olympics. All proceeds from downloads of the track will benefit Team USA.
Which New Artist of the Year nominee can now include sous chef to his growing resume?
Answer: James Otto was featured as a special guest on Food Network's hit show "Dinner: Impossible" starring celebrity Iron Chef Michael Symon. The theme was for Otto to assist Symon in preparing and serving 300 guests at the Grand Ole Opry under the direction of Country legend Charlie Daniels. While Symon taught Otto all about cooking, Otto was able to return the favor by giving Symon lessons in the history of Country Music.
Which New Artist of the Year nominee and Georgia native uses his or her tattoo as inspiration for album logos?
Answer: Macon, Ga. native Jason Aldean has a black and red tattoo on his left shoulder which is captured in various forms on Jason Aldean merchandise. The tattoo is the design of a sun-burst and can be seen in the background on the cover of his latest album Relentless.
Which New Artist of the Year nominee co-wrote a song on his or her most recent album with the reigning Horizon Award winner?
Answer: Kellie Pickler's self-titled sophomore album features "Best Days of Your Life" written by Pickler and 2007 Horizon Award winner Taylor Swift. Pickler and Swift wrote the song together last year while on tour with reigning Male Vocalist of the Year and co-host of "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards," Brad Paisley.
"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Paul Miller is the Director. David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.
Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards, including a stereo-radio simulcast of the gala event. American Airlines is the official airline of the 2008 CMA Awards. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Mary Kay® is the Official Beauty Sponsor of the 2008 CMA Awards.
Dateline: October 10, 2008
2008 CMA BROADCAST AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED
Bucky Covington Notifies CMA Broadcast Personality and Radio Station of the Year Winners On Air
Country star Bucky Covington made Country radio's elite very happy this morning when he called the 2008 CMA Broadcast Award winners to inform them of their victory. The CMA Broadcast Personality of the Year and CMA Radio Station of the Year recipients will be recognized during the "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards," airing live Wednesday, Nov. 12 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Tenn.
The CMA Broadcast Personality and CMA Radio Station of the Year winners were contacted on the stations' studio lines by Covington. The CMA Broadcast Awards finalists were announced during a September press conference in Nashville by Covington and Chuck Wicks.
"I see the hard work these Country Radio stations do day in and day out," said Covington. "I'm grateful for all they do - and so it's really awesome to get to call them with the good news."
"We're thrilled to have Bucky share the good news with this year's winners," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "There are many familiar names among these winners, and this is a testament to the continued quality and excellence of Country Radio."
Lon Helton, host of Westwood One's "CMT Country Countdown USA with Lon Helton," received his fourth National Broadcast Personality of the Year Award. Helton has won the most National Broadcast Personality of the Year Awards since the category's inception in 2001.
"There is no higher honor for a Country radio personality than receiving a broadcast award from the CMA," said Helton. "To have won this four times now (2002, 2004, 2006, 2008) is beyond belief. This year was an exceptional thrill, having been nominated with 'American Country Countdown' host Kix Brooks and Crook & Chase. My thanks to all the artists who give up their time to co-host the show each week and to the hundreds of stations who carry Westwood One's 'CMT Country Countdown USA' each weekend."
2008 CMA Broadcast Personality of the Year Winners:
National - Lon Helton, "CMT Country Countdown USA with Lon Helton," (Westwood One)
Major Market - Randy Price and Dave McKay, "Randy & Dave," WQYK, Tampa-St. Petersburg, Fla. (CBS Radio)
The duo was nominated in 2007, but this is their first win.
Large Market - Gerry House, Mike Bohan, Duncan Stewart, Al Voecks, and Richard Falklen, "Gerry House & The House Foundation," WSIX, Nashville, Tenn. (Clear Channel)
Also nominated in 2007, this marks the show's second win.
Medium Market - Andy Ritchie, Alison West and Jimmy Holt, "Andy & Alison and the Morning Crew," WIVK, Knoxville, Tenn. (Citadel)
In addition to wins in 1999, 2002 and 2005, this marks the fourth win for the show.
Small Market - Brian Gary and Todd Harding, "The Good Morning Guys," KUAD, Ft. Collins-Greeley, Colo. (Regent Broadcasting)
This marked their first nomination and win.
2008 CMA Radio Station of the Year Winners:
Major Market - WQYK, Tampa/St. Petersburg, Fla.
WQYK was a finalist eight times, and won the category in 2001.
Large Market - WFMS, Indianapolis, Ind.
This marks the sixth win for the WFMS making them the most awarded station in the category.
Medium Market - WIVK, Knoxville, Tenn.
This marks the seventh win for the WIVK making them the most awarded station in the category.
Small Market - WGSQ, Cookeville, Tenn.
WGSQ was nominated in 2005 and won in 2006.
Five finalists are selected for Broadcast Personality of the Year and Station of the Year in four categories (small, medium, large, and major market). The categories are established by market size based on population as ranked by Arbitron. Entries for Broadcast Personality of the Year are judged on aircheck, ratings, community involvement, and biographical information. Candidates for Station of the Year are judged on airchecks, ratings history, community involvement, and format leadership.
Three finalists are selected for National Broadcast Personality of the Year. To be eligible for National Broadcast Personality of the Year candidates must be syndicated, short-form, hub voice-tracking, and satellite personalities heard in at least three markets with a minimum of 40 shows per year.
CMA members who are full-time, on-air personalities and CMA member radio stations in the U.S. and Canada were eligible to enter. The entries are judged by a panel of distinguished broadcast professionals, representing all market sizes and regions. An aggregate score of the first round of judging and the second round, which is done by a different panel of judges, determines the winners. The international accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche LLP tabulates scoring by the judges. CMA Broadcast Award winners are not eligible to enter in consecutive years; therefore, those who received trophies in 2007 were not eligible in 2008.
"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer. Paul Miller is the Director. David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.
Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards, including a stereo-radio simulcast of the gala event. American Airlines is the official airline of the 2008 CMA Awards. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Mary Kay® is the Official Beauty Sponsor of the 2008 CMA Awards.
