My CMA Takeaways

I am having a lot of mixed emotions and feelings with this year's CMAs. While there's no doubt that the performances were absolutely on fire this year, I have some major issues with a couple of the winners. But I am also pretty jazzed about some of the winners. Here's what I think.

I'll start with the positives first!

I am super-stoked that Kacey Musgraves took home Female Vocalist of the Year, I really feel that it was well deserved! Her vocal talent is undeniable and I think her career is right on track to where she should be headed. I happen to be equally as stoked that Luke Combs took home Male Vocalist of Year and Song of the Year for "Beautiful Crazy" (which, by the way, was inspired by his fiancee). Without a doubt, Luke is headed to a status that most singers only dream of because he is so darn talented that every song he touches turns into a hit!

As a huge Maren Morris fan, I am beyond happy that she won album of the year. I feel it was warranted and she put so much time and effort into this album -- and then, of course, followed it up with a killer tour!

Now, with all that being said, can someone please tell me why in the heck Musical Event of Year went to "Old Town Road?" Was it a national hit that turned into a dance challenge? Yes. But is it country music? NO! Absolutely not. I am so disappointed that this is the outcome -- without a doubt in my mind, it should have gone to Brantley Gilbert and Lindsay Ell for "What happens in a small town."

Moving right along to New Artist of the Year, this one peeves me. I am not saying that Ashley McBride isn't deserving of this award, however, when you put her up against artists like Morgan Wallen, Midland and Carly Pearce, then you still choose Ashley McBride, it doesn't make sense to me. All the other contenders in the category have had more radio plays and multiple songs that outweigh what she has done.

Last but not least, yes I know you knew it was coming. Entertainer of the Year. Hmmm ... Garth? Really? Yes, he has sold out stadiums and has his Dive Bar tour, BUT Eric Church just wrapped up his Double Down tour, which did amazing. And then he extended it and added stops because it was going so well! Then you have Carrie Underwood, who all in one year had a baby, got back in shape and hit the road for her equally as successful Cry Pretty tour which, by the way, was backed by all-female openers and they KILLED IT on the road! I just don't feel like Garth has had the year that Eric Church or Carrie Underwood have had.