2023 CMA Touring Awards Nominees Revealed

The Country Music Association has made the exciting announcement of the nominees for the 2023 CMA Touring Awards. These awards shine a spotlight on the often unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes in the Country Music touring industry. Final Round voting for these prestigious awards is slated to open on Wednesday, December 13, and will conclude on Thursday, December 28.

A Night of Celebration

The ceremony, set to take place on February 12 in Nashville, TN, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the individuals who keep the Country Music world on the move. Adding to the evening's anticipation, the event will be hosted by none other than Country superstar Keith Urban.

Honoring a Legend

In a heartfelt tribute, the late Ron Baird, an industry titan and former leader of Creative Arts Agency's (CAA) Nashville office, will be granted the CMA Touring Lifetime Achievement Award posthumously. This award honors an individual's enduring contribution and influence on the touring sector and the broader Country Music community.

A Message from CMA's CEO

CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern expressed her enthusiasm, highlighting the vital role of the touring community. She mentioned the addition of five new categories, including a Crew of the Year honor, which stands as a testament to the evolving landscape and acknowledgment of the diverse roles that contribute to successful Country Music tours.

Keith Urban's Insight

Keith Urban, who himself has a history of involvement in various aspects of live shows, acknowledged the hard work of the behind-the-scenes crews. He shared his excitement at having the opportunity to host the awards and pay homage to these dedicated professionals.

Fresh Additions to the Awards

With the addition of new categories such as Backline Technician, Stage Manager, Support Services Company, Unsung Hero, and Crew of the Year, the total number of award categories has increased to 20. These additions reflect the commitment to recognizing the breadth of expertise that tours demand.

The awards' judging process remains rigorous, with all balloting being meticulously tabulated by professional services organization, Deloitte.

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