George Strait took center stage at the 2024 CMA Awards, where he was honored with the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. The ceremony, held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, was a star-studded affair filled with heartfelt tributes and emotional moments.
As the evening unfolded, a series of performances paid homage to Strait’s remarkable career. Lainey Wilson kicked things off with a rendition of “Amarillo By Morning,” setting the tone for a night dedicated to celebrating the King of Country Music. Jamey Johnson followed suit with “Give It Away,” while Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum teamed up for an unforgettable performance of “Troubadour.” The highlight came when Strait himself joined Chris Stapleton on stage to perform “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame,” prompting Strait to toast his fellow artist with a cheerful, “Cheers, brother!”
In his acceptance speech, the 72-year-old Strait expressed profound gratitude to the CMA for including him among such legendary artists as Willie Nelson. “I want to thank all these great artists who performed some of my songs that I’ve recorded over the years. It’s amazing to hear y’all do them,” he said, reflecting on the honor bestowed upon him. He also took a moment to acknowledge his family, including his wife Norma, son Bubba, daughter-in-law Tamara, and grandchildren Jilliann and Harvey. “So great to have you all here,” he said, especially highlighting Norma’s unwavering support over their nearly 53 years together.
Strait didn’t shy away from sharing his appreciation for those who have shaped his journey. He remembered late friends and colleagues who played significant roles in his life, including longtime manager Erv Woolsey and road manager Tom Foote, both of whom passed away earlier this year.
The recognition comes as a fitting capstone to Strait’s illustrious career that spans over four decades. With more than 60 No. 1 singles and 33 platinum or multi-platinum albums to his name, he is celebrated not only for his musical prowess but also for breaking records—most notably achieving the largest ticketed concert in U.S. history this year with over 110,000 attendees in College Station, Texas.
Strait’s accolades include 17 CMA Awards and a record-setting 83 nominations, making him the most-nominated artist in CMA history. He has been named Entertainer of the Year three times (1989, 1990, and 2013) and won a Grammy for Best Country Album in 2008 for “Troubadour.” The Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award is reserved for artists who have made significant contributions to country music on both national and international stages.
Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer, praised Strait’s authenticity and impact on country music: “There have been few other artists as authentically Texas and authentically Country as George Strait… he serves as an inspiration and icon to many of the great new artists we know today.”
The 58th Annual CMA Awards aired live on November 20 from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena and will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.
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