The 2024 CMT Music Awards was a night filled with thrilling performances, emotional tributes, and well-deserved wins, as artists from the country music industry gathered to celebrate their achievements. Among the standout moments were Jelly Roll’s impressive triple win and a heartfelt tribute to the late Toby Keith.
Jelly Roll emerged as the big winner of the night, securing three prestigious awards. His remarkable achievements included taking home the titles for CMT Performance of the Year, Video of the Year, and Male Video of the Year for his song “Need a Favor.” Moreover, this marked the second consecutive year that he clinched the Male Video of the Year award, solidifying his status as a dominant force in the industry.
Notably, Lainey Wilson mirrored her success from the previous year by once again securing the Female Video of the Year award, this time for “Watermelon Moonshine.” The talented Kelsea Ballerini, who has made a name for herself as a four-time host of the awards show, added her unique charm and charisma to the star-studded event as she took the stage at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas.
A poignant highlight of the evening was the tribute to the late Toby Keith, a revered figure in the country music world. Brooks & Dunn, Lainey Wilson, and rock legend Sammy Hagar delivered an energetic and celebratory tribute performance in honor of Keith. The tribute opened with a spirited rendition of Keith’s iconic track, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy,” before Sammy Hagar took the stage to perform “I Love This Bar” and share lighthearted anecdotes about their time spent together in Cabo San Lucas. Lainey Wilson closed the poignant set with a soulful performance of “How Do You Like Me Now,” backed by Keith’s longtime band.
The emotional resonance of the Toby Keith tributes and the powerful performances from the artists left a lasting impact on the audience. Keith, a beloved figure known for his pro-American anthems, passed away in February after battling stomach cancer, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with millions of fans.
As the night came to a close, the 2024 CMT Music Awards proved to be an unforgettable evening, celebrating the triumphs of artists like Jelly Roll while paying homage to the enduring influence and impact of legends like Toby Keith.
