The 2024 CMA Awards: A Night of Unforgettable Moments
The 2024 CMA Awards celebrated the best of country music, delivering a highly entertaining show packed with memorable performances, heartfelt speeches, and comedic moments.
Hosts Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan, and Peyton Manning kept the energy high with witty banter, stylish outfit changes, and touching tributes. Show-stopping performances from artists like Shaboozey, Thomas Rhett, Teddy Swims, and Jelly Roll had the audience on their feet.
Here’s a roundup of some of the most iconic moments from the 2024 CMA Awards:
01. Luke Bryan Laments Missing Out on ‘Sexiest Man Alive’
Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and Peyton Manning kicked off the show with a lively monologue, but Bryan couldn’t help sharing his disappointment over not being named PEOPLE's Sexiest Man Alive.
“I don’t know how I got left out,” he joked, adding a humorous twist to the night's opening.
02. Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims Steal the Spotlight
Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims delivered a powerhouse performance, showcasing their vocal talent with their collaboration “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Woman” and Swims’ hit “Lose Control.” The duo left the crowd mesmerized.
03. Luke Bryan Sparks a Rumor (Almost)
Bryan’s attempt to welcome Lainey Wilson to the hosting trio resulted in a hilarious misstep. He referred to the group as a “threesome,” prompting Wilson to quickly interject, “Luke, no. That’s how rumors start!” The hosts ultimately settled on calling themselves a “trio,” complete with a personalized T-shirt bearing their nicknames.
04. Carrie Underwood Surprises with Cody Johnson Duet
Fans were thrilled when Carrie Underwood, absent from the red carpet, made a surprise appearance to join Cody Johnson onstage for their duet, “I’m Gonna Love You.” Underwood dazzled in a flowing white dress with lace and fringe accents.
05. George Strait Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award
The Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award went to George Strait in a touching ceremony. Chris Stapleton and Miranda Lambert paid tribute with a heartfelt performance before Strait took the stage to thank his family, especially his wife of nearly 53 years, Norma Strait.
“It’s been an amazing 53 years,” he shared, as the audience applauded.
06. Bailey Zimmerman Plays Beer Pong Onstage
Bailey Zimmerman brought a fun, laid-back vibe to his performance of “New to Country” by incorporating a beer pong table into his act. It was a moment that added a playful twist to the night.
07. Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan’s Emotional Collaboration
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan joined forces to perform “Cowboys Cry Too” from Ballerini’s Patterns album. Their chemistry shone both onstage and backstage, where they shared laughs and struck playful poses for the cameras.
The 2024 CMA Awards were a celebration of talent, creativity, and camaraderie, proving yet again why country music holds such a special place in the hearts of fans.