Country Music Association Awards Announces Plan to Pay Tribute to Loretta Lynn
The late country star had a longstanding relationship with the CMA.
The country music world has been in mourning since trailblazing singer-songwriter Loretta Lynn died at age 90 on October 4. Upon news of her death, heartfelt tributes from Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and Carrie Underwood, among others, poured in. Yesterday, the Country Music Association announced it would pay tribute to Lynn at this year’s awards ceremony.
Lynn’s story was an inspiring one — she forged a path out of rural poverty with her natural musical talents, and in a career which spanned six decades, she became known as one of the first women in country music to frankly address subjects that spoke directly to women’s triumphs and struggles.
Country music wouldn’t be the same without Lynn’s powerful presence, which is why it’s fitting that “Country Music’s Biggest Night” honors her.
What was Loretta Lynn’s CMA legacy?
On November 9, the 56th annual Country Music Association Awards (CMA Awards) will open with a tribute to Lynn’s life and music career, which spanned six decades and commenced before “Country Music’s Biggest Night” even existed. Lynn’s first single, “I’m a Honky Tonk Girl,” was released in 1960. Her debut album, Loretta Lynn Sings, followed in 1963.
In 1971, she made history as the first female artist to be nominated for Entertainer of the Year. One year later, donning a bright green dress with billowing sleeves and her signature bouffant, she won the award, beating out Merle Haggard, Freddie Hart, Charley Pride, and Jerry Reed. She also took home Female Vocalist of the Year that night. Over the course of her career, Lynn would win eight CMA Awards.
Where can I watch the CMA Awards?
The specifics of the CMA Awards’ tribute to Lynn haven’t yet been announced, but given her far-reaching influence, it’s sure to be a star-studded affair. So far, performers scheduled to appear at the show include Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Kelsea Ballerini, Carly Pearce, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, and Zac Brown Band. The awards ceremony will be co-hosted by singer Luke Bryan and football player Peyton Manning. The CMA Awards will air live on ABC at 8 p.m. EST on Wednesday, November 9. The show will be available to stream on Hulu the next day.
