CMA Awards   -  Archives

Superduo Brooks & Dunn host the show for the first time as Tim McGraw kicks it off with "How Bad Do You Want It?" McGraw's hit "Live Like You Were Dying" wins single of the year and gives co-writers Tim Nichols and Craig Wiseman song of the year honors. Kenny Chesney picks up his first two CMA awards including album of the year (When the Sun Goes Down) and entertainer of the year. His acceptance speech is cut short by the show's hasty ending insulting fans and industry insiders alike. Chesney's tourmate, Keith Urban is named male vocalist and Martina McBride continues her reign as female vocalist. "Redneck Woman" Gretchen Wilson receives the Horizon Award. The mournful "Whiskey Lullaby" gives Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss the musical event and music video of the year awards. Prolific songwriter Kris Kristofferson joins producer Jim Foglesong as this year's Country Music Hall of Fame inductees.