S Poddar
At the 58th Annual Country Music Association Awards, held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Chris Stapleton emerged as the night’s biggest winner, taking home three prestigious awards. The 46-year-old Kentucky native triumphed in a number of key categories, further cementing his reputation as one of country music’s finest talents.
Stapleton took home the prize for Single of the Year on White Horse, which marks his third win in the category. Stapleton did not take home the Entertainer of the Year prize, however, which went to Morgan Wallen; he was among the first to take to the mic and thank voters following the presentation. “Well, amazing – so many great and very, very popular songs in this category – I’m very humbled to win this award,” he said, clearly touched by the recognition.
Stapleton also won the Song of the Year award for the collaboration with Dan Wilson on White Horse. While speaking, he had another touching moment as he thanked his wife, Morgane Stapleton. “I owe my wife an apology – that last award belonged to her, too, and she didn’t come up here,” he laughed. “It all happened so quick. I love you, honey, backstage, wherever you are, getting ready right now. All of my music, I owe a lot to her, so, I want to say thank you to her for always supporting me.”
In addition to his two majors, Stapleton won Male Vocalist of the Year, marking his eighth such victory. “I’m out of things to say – I love all y’all so much,” he said, tearfully taking the stage. “Thank you, CMAs, for gifting me with this award. I’m honored to be in a category with all the other guys in the category.” He went on to pay homage to his wife and their five children, “I love my wife – thank you, baby, for everything. I can’t do this without you and I probably wouldn’t even be here without you. All my kids at home, thank you – I love you guys, if you’re watching – you can go to bed now. I’m really honored for this. Thank you very much.”
32-Year-Old artist Lainey Wilson from Baskin, Louisiana was another notable star that received the awards. In addition to her win as Female Vocalist of the Year, she co-hosted the awards with Peyton Manning and Luke Combs and proved her talent and being a smart charming person. While expressing gratitude, Wilson said how blessed and thankful she has been to be supported through this far in her career. “This community has wrapped their arms around me and lifted me up since day one,” she shared. “I’ve always been told if you feel like you got a gift, you’re supposed to share it. And I think that means whether you drive a tractor or pour coffee, make people smile or laugh, whatever that is, I think you’re supposed to share that gift, and I just want to say thank y’all so much for letting me share mine.”
Wilson was one of the biggest winners this night, taking home the Female Vocalist of the Year award, where she outsmarted Kelsea Ballerini, Ashley McBryde, Megan Moroney, and Kacey Musgraves. Her strong words and passion for her job really spoke to the audience, so much that it felt greater by being a winner herself.
Fans and well-wishers both from the industry and country music fans around the world rejoiced in the big wins for Stapleton and Wilson at the 2024 CMA Awards as proof that their talents, dedication, and hard work continue to resonate with country music audiences everywhere. The night was a reminder of the power of music and the connection it creates for artists with their supporters, ensuring that country music remains vibrant and inspiring as ever.
