The CMT Music Awards have always been a celebration of country music’s finest, where fans come together to honor their favorite artists, songs, and videos. Year after year, the awards show delivers unforgettable moments that define country music culture. From memorable performances to emotional acceptance speeches, the CMT Music Awards have provided fans with some of the most iconic moments in music history. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 most unforgettable moments from the CMT Music Awards, proving why it continues to be one of the most anticipated events in country music.
1. Carrie Underwood’s Record-Breaking Wins
Carrie Underwood has long been a fan favorite at the CMT Music Awards, and her record-breaking wins have cemented her place as one of the biggest stars in country music. Throughout the years, Underwood has collected more CMT Music Awards than any other artist. One of the most iconic moments came in 2020 when she won both Video of the Year and Female Video of the Year, taking her total number of awards to an astonishing 22. Underwood’s continued success at the CMT Music Awards is a testament to her enduring popularity and her ability to connect with fans on a personal level.
2. Taylor Swift’s Cross-Genre Performance
Before Taylor Swift became a global pop sensation, she was a rising star in the country music world. Her performance at the 2009 watch cmt live outside us was a pivotal moment in her career. Swift performed her hit single “You Belong with Me,” combining elements of country and pop that showcased her crossover potential. This performance marked the beginning of her evolution from country star to global pop icon. It’s a moment that not only defined the trajectory of her career but also highlighted the growing intersection between country and pop music.
3. Keith Urban and John Mayer’s Guitar Duel
One of the most talked-about performances in CMT Music Awards history was the 2010 guitar duel between Keith Urban and John Mayer. Urban, known for his incredible guitar skills, teamed up with Mayer for an electrifying rendition of Urban’s song “Hit the Ground Running.” The performance was a masterclass in guitar playing, with both artists delivering jaw-dropping solos that left the audience in awe. This collaboration bridged the gap between country and rock, creating a moment that transcended genres and showcased the universal appeal of great musicianship.
4. Shania Twain’s Triumphant Return
Shania Twain is a country music legend, and her return to the CMT Music Awards stage in 2011 was nothing short of iconic. After a long hiatus, Twain made a triumphant comeback, presenting the Video of the Year award and reminding fans why she remains one of the most influential women in country music. Twain’s presence at the awards show was a nostalgic moment for fans who had missed her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. It was a reminder of her lasting impact on the genre and her role in shaping modern country music.
5. Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert’s Emotional Win
Before their highly publicized split, Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert were country music’s power couple. In 2014, the duo shared an emotional moment when they won Collaborative Video of the Year for their duet “Over You.” The song, which was written about Shelton’s late brother, struck a chord with fans and showcased the deep personal connection between the two artists. Their heartfelt acceptance speech was a touching moment that resonated with viewers, offering a rare glimpse into the personal lives of two of country music’s biggest stars.
6. Little Big Town’s Show-Stopping Girl Crush Performance
In 2015, Little Big Town delivered one of the most memorable performances in CMT Music Awards history with their rendition of “Girl Crush.” The song, which was initially met with controversy for its lyrics, quickly became a fan favorite and went on to win multiple awards. Little Big Town’s performance at the CMT Music Awards was a show-stopper, with the group’s powerful harmonies and emotional delivery captivating the audience. It was a defining moment for the band, solidifying their place as one of country music’s most innovative and boundary-pushing groups.
7. Chris Stapleton’s Breakout Moment
Chris Stapleton had been a respected songwriter for years, but his performance at the 2016 CMT Music Awards catapulted him into the spotlight as a solo artist. Stapleton performed his hit single “Tennessee Whiskey,” delivering a soulful and heartfelt rendition that left the audience spellbound. His raw talent and unique voice resonated with viewers, and his performance marked the beginning of his rise to stardom. Stapleton’s breakout moment at the CMT Music Awards remains one of the most iconic moments in the show’s history.
8. Kelsea Ballerini’s CMT Debut
Kelsea Ballerini is one of country music’s brightest young stars, and her debut performance at the 2017 CMT Music Awards was a career-defining moment. Ballerini performed her hit single “Legends,” showcasing her incredible vocal talent and stage presence. The performance was a major milestone for the rising star, signaling her arrival as a force to be reckoned with in the country music world. Ballerini’s CMT Music Awards debut is a moment that fans still talk about today, and it marked the beginning of her ascent to stardom.
9. Luke Bryan’s High-Energy Performance
Luke Bryan is known for his high-energy performances, and his 2018 CMT Music Awards performance was no exception. Bryan took the stage to perform his hit song “Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset,” bringing his signature energy and charisma to the awards show. The performance was a highlight of the night, with Bryan’s infectious energy getting the entire audience on their feet. His ability to connect with fans and deliver unforgettable performances has made him one of the biggest stars in country music, and his 2018 CMT Music Awards performance is a testament to his enduring appeal.
10. Carrie Underwood’s Cry Pretty Performance
Carrie Underwood’s 2019 performance of “Cry Pretty” was one of the most powerful moments in CMT Music Awards history. The song, which deals with themes of vulnerability and resilience, showcased Underwood’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. Her performance was raw, emotional, and deeply personal, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. Underwood’s ability to connect with her audience on such a personal level has made her a standout performer at the CMT Music Awards, and her “Cry Pretty” performance is one that fans will never forget.
Conclusion
The CMT Music Awards have provided fans with countless iconic moments that celebrate the best of country music. From emotional performances to career-defining wins, these moments have left a lasting impact on both the artists and their fans. As the CMT Music Awards continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: the show’s ability to deliver unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a longtime country music fan or a newcomer to the genre, the CMT Music Awards offer a front-row seat to some of the most memorable moments in music history. And if you want to keep up with all the action, don’t forget to learn how to watch CMT live outside the us for uninterrupted access to the show, no matter where you are.