The Moody Center in Austin, Texas was buzzing with excitement as the biggest names in country music gathered for the 2023 CMT Music Awards. Hosted by Kelsea Ballerini and Kane Brown, the event is voted on by the fans and recognizes the best of the best in country music. This year’s awards also had some notable moments that highlighted inclusivity and diversity in the industry.
Shania Twain receives the CMT Equal Play Award
The highlight of the night was when Shania Twain received the 2023 “CMT Equal Play Award” for her advocacy of elevating diverse and underrepresented voices in country music. The award recognizes artists who speak out against inequality and serve as role models for inclusion. Shania Twain promised to champion country artists who are not currently given the recognition they deserve.
In an emotional acceptance speech, she called on the country music industry to provide equal opportunities for all talent regardless of gender, age, or race. She stressed that an inclusive workspace will help promote diversity and representation in the industry.
“I want to be on the path of inclusion and represent it,” said Twain. “I’m speaking for new talent and upcoming young female artists who might be excluded.”
Rising stars supported by Shania Twain
During her acceptance speech, she shouted out many rising stars she is bringing with her on her Queen of Me tour this year, including Lily Rose, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, BRELAND, Robyn Ottolini, Mickey Guyton, and others.
Twain wants to use her platform to uplift upcoming artists from diverse backgrounds and provide them with a platform to showcase their talents. Her call for inclusivity comes at a time when many industries are grappling with issues related to representation and diversity.
A celebration of country music and style
The CMT Music Awards is not just a celebration of country music, but also a showcase of the latest in fashion. Many country stars walked the red carpet wearing designer outfits that captured their unique sense of style.
Kelsea Ballerini made her red carpet debut with boyfriend Chase Stokes in a stunning Dolce & Gabbana dress. Shania Twain stole the show in a sexy cut-out gown with a ravishing red wig. Carrie Underwood flaunted her toned legs in a sparkly Dolce & Gabbana ensemble.
Other notable fashion statements included Lainey Wilson’s colorful jumpsuit, Megan Thee Stallion’s custom Defaïence gown with cutouts, and Gwen Stefani’s glittering gold Valentino Couture hot pants with a blazer and tie.
A night of tribute performances
The ceremony also featured tribute performances honoring legendary artists Stevie Ray Vaughan and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Darius Rucker was set to perform with The Black Crowes to sing one of the band’s hit songs “She Talks to Angels.”
Some of the biggest names in country music were set to perform at the awards show, including Twain, Stefani, Carly Pearce, Alanis Morissette, and Ingrid Andress.
CMT Music Awards winners
The winners were indicated in bold for each category, including video of the year, female video of the year, male video of the year, group/duo video of the year, female breakthrough video of the year, male breakthrough video of the year, collaborative video of the year, CMT performance of the year, and CMT digitalfirst performance of the year.
Carrie Underwood won video of the year for her song “Southbound,” while Gabby Barrett won female video of the year for “I Hope.” Kane Brown won male video of the year for “Worship You,” and Little Big Town won group/duo video of the year for “Wine, Beer, Whiskey.” The winners for other categories can be found on the CMT Music Awards website.
Conclusion
The 2023 CMT Music Awards was a night filled with music, fashion, and inclusivity. Shania Twain’s call for more representation and equal play in the country music industry resonated with many artists and fans alike. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s important to recognize and promote diversity in all its forms.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
