Insider's Guide to the CMA Awards 2023: Hosts, Nominees, Performers, and More
Get ready for the ultimate celebration of country music as Nashville hosts the 2023 CMA Awards on November 8 Join us to witness extraordinary hosts, exceptional nominees, outstanding performers, a special tribute to Jimmy Buffett, and an unforgettable night of music Don't miss this remarkable event!
Luke Bryan, Payton Manning, Lainey Wilson Getty Images(2)
Get ready for an exciting event as the 2023 CMA Awards come to Nashville on Wednesday, November 8th. Country music enthusiasts are sure to enjoy this highly anticipated awards show, featuring an amazing performance by Lainey Wilson. At just 31 years old, Wilson has garnered an impressive nine nominations, making her the most nominated artist of the year. This achievement is not lost on her, and she considers it a great honor.
"Wow, what an incredible moment. I can't believe what I'm seeing," Wilson expressed excitedly via X in September when the nominations were unveiled. "Being nominated in these categories alongside my friends means the world to me. Entertainer of the Year?! It feels absolutely unreal. We work tirelessly on the road every night to give you all the best show, and I truly have the time of my life doing it. All I can say is thank you. I have such a deep love for country music."
In addition, Wilson made history at the CMA Awards by becoming the only artist to lead the nominations list in her first two appearances on the final ballot. In 2022, during her debut year as a nominee, she secured an impressive six nods, cementing her status as a top artist.
Scroll down for everything to know about the 2023 CMA Awards:
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Who Is Hosting the 2023 CMA Awards?
Returning for the second consecutive year, NFL legend Peyton Manning and country icon Luke Bryan will once again take on the role of cohosts for the event. Reflecting on their previous experience, Bryan, 47, expressed, "Hosting the CMA Awards with you, Peyton, was truly an extraordinary moment." Manning, 47, reciprocated the sentiment by stating, "Luke, it was an event that will be remembered for years to come." In a playful gesture, the duo playfully rode fake horses and simulated a journey towards a setting sun before enthusiastically agreeing to return as the emcees.
Which Singers Are Nominated for a 2023 CMA Award?
Apart from Wilson, other notable contenders for the 2023 awards ceremony include Jelly Roll, who has received five nominations, Luke Combs and HARDY, both with four nods each. Jordan Davis, Ashley McBryde, Chris Stapleton, and Morgan Wallen are all in the running for three awards each.
The biggest category of the night, Entertainer of the Year, puts Wilson up against Combs, 33, Stapleton, 45, Wallen, 30, and Carrie Underwood.
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Who Are the Top 2023 CMA Awards Performers?
In the initial lineup of performers, the following artists were announced: Bryan, Stapleton, Wilson, Jelly Roll, 38, K. Michelle, Little Big Town, Megan Moroney, Old Dominion, Carly Pearce, and Tanya Tucker. Moreover, ABC disclosed on November 1 that Kelsea Ballerini, Jordan Davis, Cody Johnson, Dan + Shay, The War and Treaty, McBryde, 40, and HARDY, 33, will also grace the stage.
Post Malone, HARDY, and Wallen are set to team up for a "county classics medley," as confirmed by the network's press site.
How Will the 2023 CMA Awards Honor Jimmy Buffett?
The CMA Awards will feature performances by Kenny Chesney, Mac McAnally, Alan Jackson, and Zac Brown Band, as they come together to honor the late Buffett. The iconic "Margaritaville" singer passed away at the age of 76 after a four-year private struggle with skin cancer.
Where and When Can You Watch the 2023 CMA Awards?
The prestigious CMA Awards are scheduled to be held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Viewers can catch the live broadcast of the awards show on ABC on Wednesday, November 8, at 8 p.m. ET. For those who have subscribed to Hulu's live TV plan, the event will also be available for streaming on the platform.
