November 3, 2016
The 50th annual CMA Awards show gave a fitting tribute to the genres legends and talented newcomers last night. The show, hosted by country superstars Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley included all-star collaborations on songs that covered decades of country music’s biggest hits. Some of the pairings included George Strait and Alan Jackson, Dwight Yoakam with Chris Stapleton, Jason Aldean who joined Brooks & Dunn and Brad Paisley performed with the Oak Ridge Boys. Perhaps the biggest surprise of the night was when pop music queen Beyoncé sang her song “Daddy Lessons” with the Dixie Chicks.
In between the stellar musical performances, the association honored the best music of the year and the top honor of entertainer of the year went to Garth Brooks for the fifth time. See the complete list of winners here.
It was also a night to salute the stars whose accomplishments transcend well beyond 2016. Superstar Dolly Parton received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement award. A tribute to Parton included her “9 to 5” co-star Lily Tomlin, along with Martina McBride, Kacey Musgraves, Jennifer Nettles, Pentatonix, Reba, and Underwood.
Kenny Chesney was awarded the CMA Pinnacle Award by his friend and retired NFL quarterback Peyton Manning.
Check out photos of the red carpet and from the show.