ACM Tempo Fall 2020

TEMPO ACM

FALL 2020

A HISTORYMAKING NIGHT 55th ACM AWARDS® WINNERS

Carrie Underwood and Thomas Rhett both win ACM ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR — a first in Academy history

A COMPLETE LIST

ACM LIFTING LIVES® PARTNERS WITH CHRISTIE’S s VIRTUAL RADIO REMOTES s CHECK OUT ACM: THE HUB

Contents

10 | ON THE BLOCK ACM Lifting Lives® teams up with Christie’s for “Nashville: An Auction to Benefit ACM Lifting Lives® COVID-19 Response Fund” 34 | ACM WINNERS See the full list of Country Artists who took home ACM Awards on September 16 36 | VIRTUAL SUCCESS Safety reigned supreme as this year’s Radio Remotes went virtual

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Editor’s Note

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CEO’s Note

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ACM News

56

In Memory

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ACM Moment

On the Cover

55th ACM Awards: An unforgettable night of firsts at three iconic venues in Nashville PAGE 20

42 | GONE VIRAL Take a look at what your favorite Country stars posted on their social feeds from the 55th ACM Awards 46 | YOU’RE ON MUTE Check out what Luke Combs, Mickey Guyton and more had to say from this year’s virtual Press Room

acmcountry.com

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TEMPO ACM

E D ITO R ’ S N OTE

E ditor

Lisa Lee A ssistant E ditor

Libby Gardner

2020 in the Rearview ust about all public gatherings, from school to church, have been virtual this year, but one thing that was 100% real was the musical medicine that came from the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards.

Whether a poignant solo performance from The Bluebird Cafe or

C ontributors

Craig Shelburne D esign

Randi Karabin, Karabin Creative P rinting

Graphic Visions Commerical Printing P hotos

ACM, Getty Images, CBS, Brandon Campbell, Maddy Stessman, Damon Whiteside ACADEMY STAFF CEO

Damon Whiteside S enior Vice P resident/C reative & C ontent

Lisa Lee

the Ryman Auditorium or an amazing collaboration from the Grand

S enior Vice P resident/Events

Ole Opry House, each one of the 24 performances was a balm to fans

S enior Vice P resident/M arketing

watching from home. It was also an important field trip out of the house for country artists who have been grounded from the road since early spring.

Also adding to the record-breaking nature of 2020, there was a tie for ACM Entertainer of the Year for the first time in Academy history. Thomas Rhett took home his first Entertainer trophy, and Carrie Underwood became the first woman to win the category three times. Fellow Entertainer of the Year Taylor

Erick Long Brooke Primero Vice P resident/Finance & O perations

Alexa Fasheh Vice P resident/ A rtist & I ndustry R elations , B oard A dministration & G overnance

Tommy Moore E xecutive D irector/ACM L ifting L ives

Lyndsay Cruz D irector/Strategic Partnerships

Jen Heaton

Swift returned to the ACM stage for the first time in seven years to perform her

S enior Video M anager/C reative & C ontent

new song “betty.” And Mickey Guyton became the first Black female solo artist to

S enior M anager/M arketing

perform her own original song on the show. Many shining moments in a year of crazy. Hopefully these are moments that will lessen the distance between us.

No one knows what 2021 will bring, but there is likely some great music that

Brandon Campbell Melissa Moldovan M anager/M arketing

Jessica Curtis M anager/Events

Lanni Gagnon

will come from this extended hiatus, and I can’t wait to hear what the country

M anager/A rtist & I ndustry R elations ; B oard A dministration & G overnance

artists are crafting.

Maddy Stessman

Here’s wishing you a healthy and peaceful New Year.

M anager/Finance & O perations

Mary Pambukyan M anager/ACM L ifting L ives

Taylor Wolf

Cheers!

C oordinator/Events

Danielle Bardier C oordinator/M arketing

Bridget Cirone C oordinator/Strategic Partnerships

Lisa Lee Editor

Jenny Dunn C oordinator/C reative & C ontent

Libby Gardner A ssistant/ Finance & O perations

Gloria Chavez A ssistant/C reative & C ontent

Hannah Kellis A ssistant/M arketing

Dayna Poskanzer

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E N D L E S S R E C R E AT I O N

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FRO M TH E CEO

Dear Valued Academy Members, “A Night of Heart and Hits” was the perfect description for the historic, first-ever ACM Awards® show in Nashville. This epic night took place in three of Country Music’s most iconic venues — the Grand Ole Opry House, Ryman Auditorium and The Bluebird Cafe, all of which sparkled as much as our artists. With 24 heartfelt performances, the show proved to be one of the most music-filled and poignant shows ever. You can still enjoy these performances at our website (acmcountry.com) and the ACM YouTube channel (youtube.com/acmcountry).

We were honored to have our reigning Entertainer of the Year, Keith Urban, host the show for the first time, and he struck the perfect chord bringing warmth, humor and emotion throughout the evening. One of the most memorable moments of the night was Keith’s reveal of a tie between Carrie Underwood and Thomas Rhett for ACM Entertainer of the Year, another first in ACM history!

I am so proud of our ACM staff and partners — dick clark productions, CBS Television and Executive Producer RAC Clark — who literally moved mountains together to create a safe, beautiful show in the midst of an unprecedented health crisis. The broadcast will go down in the ACM history books as a most special and memorable show that truly highlighted the joy and comfort that our artists and their hits bring to the fans. While our dominant No. 1 TV rating, increased social engagement and overwhelmingly positive press reviews were certainly a stellar report card, what is more significant is that we were able to provide a national stage for our one-of-a-kind artist community to share their hearts and their hits, to embrace the diversity of our industry, and to support our ongoing COVID-19 Response Fund through ACM Lifting Lives®. The fund has already distributed more than $1.5 million in emergency relief directly to our members in need.

As we draw nearer to the close of 2020, please be safe, continue to innovate and know that the Academy appreciates our Members and all that you do make Country Music resilient and strong!

Sincerely,

Damon

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Taylor Wolf Promoted to Manager, ACM Lifting Lives® Taylor Wolf joined the Academy two years ago as coordinator of the Academy of Country Music’s® charitable arm, ACM Lifting Lives. Originally from Brentwood, Tenn., Wolf received a bachelor’s of science degree from Pepperdine University, where she majored in psychology. Following her graduation, she returned to Nashville to work in the human resources department at Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare. She later moved back to California for a digital content opportunity. She then joined the Academy of Country Music early last year working with both ACM Lifting Lives and Academy of Country Music’s Strategic Partnerships department, before transitioning to focus fully on the charitable arm in the summer. In her role as manager for ACM Lifting Lives, Wolf will coordinate the annual discretionary grant cycle, oversee correspondence and fund distribution for the ACM Lifting Lives COVID-19 Response Fund, and continue providing support for the overall functions of ACM Lifting Lives. In addition, Wolf currently serves as the secretary of the ACM Lifting Lives Board.

Wolf reports to Lyndsay Cruz, executive director, ACM Lifting Lives.

ACM AWARDS 2021

VOTING TIMELINE

The ballot timeline for professional members 56TH ACM AWARDS VOTING PERIOD SUBMISSIONS December 1, 2020 (opens 9 am PST) — January 8, 2021 (closes 5 pm PST)

FIRST ROUND January 19, 2021 (opens 9 am PST) — January 26, 2021 (closes 5 pm PST)

SECOND ROUND February 10, 2021 (opens 9 am PST) — February 17, 2021 (closes 5 pm PST)

ACM DIVERSITY & INCLUSION TASK FORCE FORMED

FINAL ROUND

The Academy of Country Music has created the ACM Diversity & Inclusion Task Force. Piloted by Chair Becky Gardenhire (WME), Vice Chair Candice Watkins (Big Loud Records) and ACM Staff Lead Erick Long, the Task Force sprung from ACM‘s work with Change the Conversation, which started two years ago. The Task Force is seeking a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups, encompassing but not limited to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, LatinX and Women in the Country Music industry, from the boardroom to the stage.

Early steps have been working with the ACM Membership Department on recruitment of diverse ACM members and intern applicants from colleges and universities all over the country.

More to come in 2021 from this exciting initiative.

56TH ACM AWARDS ELIGIBILITY PERIODS

Week After Week

This summer many of your favorite Country Artists took to the “virtual” stage with two new ACM® official series. ACM Wine Down Wednesday presented by 1000 Stories® Wine featured intimate and heartfelt performances by artists including Carly Pearce, Cassadee Pope, Lindsay Ell, Maddie & Tae, ACM New Female Artist of the Year, Tenille Townes and more. The ACM Weekly kept Wednesday nights hopping for all Country Music fans as artists including Devin Dawson, Gabby Barrett, Ingrid Andress, Lee Brice, Runaway June, Tracy Lawrence and more answered fan questions and performed some of their latest songs.

Stay tuned for updates on these series, livestreams, artist merchandise and more exclusive content by joining the ACM A-List at thehub.acmcountry.com.

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March 17, 2021 (opens 9 am PST) — March 24, 2021 (closes 5 pm PST)

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020

Final day to become a member to vote in the 56th ACM Awards process is December 1, 2020, 5 pm PST

congratulations

kelsea ballerini

on an

incredible 2020 (so far)

biggest debut week of 2020 for a country album released by a solo female released

2 billboard top 10 country albums

charted in 3 separate radio formats simultaneously top 40, hot ac, & country

over

750m global streams

“kelsea ballerini is definitely one of the most influential women in country right now... she’s defining the sound of the genre.”

“pop-leaning tunes found country twang…. her voice is the main instrument and storytelling takes the lead role.”

“ballerini proves masterful at doing what the best country music has always done: giving expression to universal themes of love, loss and small-town life in a plain-spoken way. ”

“she’s the only singer in nashville versatile enough to deliver a moody ballad with halsey on one song and a heartwarming acoustic anthem with kenny chesney on the next.”

acmcountry.com

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ACM Lifting Lives Teams Up with Christie’s

T

o benefit the ACM Lifting Lives COVID-19 Response Fund, Christie’s auctioned off memorabilia and ephemera from many Country Music stars. The auction featured an eclectic lineup of items ranging from a signed black 2018 Gibson acoustic guitar personally inscribed and dated by Taylor Swift that was played by Swift at the 2020 ACM Awards to a Swarovski-crystal bedazzled four-string dulcimer owned by Dolly Parton for 30 years.

Parton said, “Seeing my Country Music community suffer due to the pandemic has broken my heart. It was important to donate the dulcimer that was designed for my 50th Opry Anniversary so we can raise awareness and much needed funds to keep these folks on their feet before we can open the doors to our stages once again.”

Other auction highlights included Sheryl Crow’s vintage Baldoni accordion; Keith Urban’s Hi-9 semi-solid body electric guitar he played in his 2018 “Coming Home” video from the album Graffiti U and on the 2018 ACM Awards Show; Bradley Cooper’s semi-hollow

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“A C O U N T RY M U S I C P OW E R H O U S E … ”

MEMORY I DON’T MESS WITH ONE OF THEM GIRLS I HOPE YOU’RE HAPPY NOW ( W I T H C A R LY P E A R C E )

N E WS

body electric Gibson guitar used

by Cooper as “Jackson Maine” alongside Lady Gaga throughout rehearsals and filming of the 2019 blockbuster “A Star is Born;” and Dwight Yoakam’s Epiphone Casino guitar with hard shell case from the cover of his 2005 studio album Blame the Vain. Also included in the sale was “HAGGARD” a 2019 work by Visual Artist and award-winning songwriter Bernie Taupin, saluting the lyrics of American Country Music singer Merle Haggard from his 1970 epic “The Fighting Side of Me.” Additionally, the auction offered signed guitars from Vince Gill, Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney and more.

Contributing to the stellar lineup were items from artists including a circa 1930 acoustic guitar from Little Big Town; ephemera from documentarian Ken Burns, the filmmaker of the multi-part documentary “Country Music;” a collection of Country artist Marty Stuart’s photography books; stage dresses worn by Reba McEntire, reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year Carrie Underwood and Trisha Yearwood; a stage costume worn by Billy Bob Thornton on the TV show “Goliath;” custom and stage-worn cowboy boots from Miranda Lambert; as well as Clint Black’s boots and one of his iconic harmonicas. —LIBBY GARDNER

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JON PARDI

“A HERO IN THE MAKING” VARIETY

“He proves that country is still thrillingly alive” Rolling Stone

“Jon Pardi cut a path through modern country by stubbornly sticking to fiddles, steel guitar and dive-bar jukebox energy” New York Times

“Jon Pardi’s Hyperactive Honky-Tonk Brings The Past Into The Present” NPR First Listen

Los Angeles Times

D I SC OVE R M O RE

J O N PA R D I . C O M

THIS IS PARDI COUNTRY

“Pardi’s evolved approach to Country’s heritage sets him apart... with his superb new album, Pardi stands to excite listeners from well beyond his native Northern California”

Heartache Medication #1 Single, RIAA-Certified Platinum 2X ACM album of the year nominee with Jon as producer and artist for Heartache Medication acmcountry.com

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Even amidst a global pandemic, the 55th ACM Awards gained well-deserved buzz from fans, media and artists, setting the bar The Academy of Country Music Awards honors and showcases the biggest and emerging talent into thecome. high fornames award shows country music industry. The star-studded ceremony features once-in-a-lifetime musical collaborations, performances, and more as country’s greatest talents are recognized for their achievements.

CLICK TO PLAY REEL

“

THE 2020 ACM AWARDS DIDN’T HIDE FROM THE PANDEMIC — THEY EMBRACED IT…

ONE OF THE MOST UNCONVENTIONAL — BUT TASTEFUL — SHOWS IN RECENT MEMORY.

”

the buzz

47B+

GLOBAL MEDIA IMPRESSIONS INCREASED 208% YoY “ACMs Figured Out How to Do a Pandemic-Era Music Awards Show Right — Were the Grammys Watching?”

GLOBAL MEDIA IMPRESSIONS ACROSS BROADCAST, DIGITAL, RADIO AND PRINT

“This year's ACM Awards proved that an audience isn't actually necessary to have an incredibly entertaining awards show.”

BROADCAST

16.3M

TOTAL UNIQUE VIEWERS

6.8M

TOTAL AVERAGE VIEWERS

1.1

The 2020 show on CBS was

#1

2.2x

The 2020 ACM Awards won

12 out of 12

A18-49 L+SD 8-11 pm against all broadcast and cable competition

the average CBS primetime entertainment rating

quarter hours in primetime A18-49, a complete victory from beginning to end

The 2020 ACM Awards was the

3.2M

+110%

total interactions across Facebook, Instagram & Twitter about the 2020 ACM Awards

total interactions across Facebook, Instagram & Twitter than the 54th ACM Awards

(on over 100 measured cable nets)

A18-49 RATING

The 2020 ACM Awards rating was

(Since June 2020, P2+ L+3)

social

#1

driver of social video views across all of TV on 9/16/2020

brand power 14

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#1

100% participation from performers across social

HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE ROAD SOON!

driver of social video views across all of TV on 9/16/2020

Instagram & Twitter about the 2020 ACM Awards

Instagram & Twitter than the 2019 CMA Awards

brand power

#1

100% participation from performers across social media in advance of the show, helping drive tune in

#2

Within the first week of the show, the show performances garnered over 18M views across artists YouTube, Instagram and Facebook

#3

The songs performed on the ACM Awards delivered a +7% lift in streams for participating artists (Sept. 16-17 vs Sept. 14-15)

the landscape

The 2020 ACM Awards viewership leads alongside some of the biggest award shows

+7%

more P2+ viewers than the 2020 Emmy Awards

+51%

more P2+ viewers than the 2020 VMA Awards

+60%

more P2+ viewers than the 2020 BET Awards

the partners With a rapid gain in audience following the custom spot, the Ford integration followed by Luke Combs’ performance, continued to grow minute by minute reaching a 1.2 rating

“As the media landscape continues to change, partners like dcp are becoming increasing important for agencies and brands. Their ability to collaborate with us on every level from creative development to production to navigating the network and producer relationships is invaluable bringing high quality branded content ideas to reality.”

- Curt Jaksen, Managing Director, Brand Content & Alliances GTB

the fans GEN POP

ACM AWARDS DIE-HARD FANS

50 hrs

59 hrs

Money spent on music categories (typical month)

$96

$176

Watched television (broadcast or cable) in past 12 months

73%

86%

Electronics purchasing in the past 3 months

23%

32%

Credit card purchasing in the past 3 months

16%

22%

Automotive purchasing in the past 3 months

9%

15%

Among music listeners, the mostly time spent with music

Sources: Nielsen, Nielsen Social, MRC Data/Nielsen Music, Cision, Meltwater, BurrellesLuce, TV Eyes; Unique Viewers based on a 6 min qualifier; Broadcast ratings L+3 ; Primetime Entertainment excludes sustainers, breakouts and all sports program types . Base: Music Listeners – Total Gen Pop 13+ (2750), Academy of Country Music Awards Die-Hard Fans (129), Academy of Country Music Awards Considerers (108); Global Media Impressions 2019 are Feb - April 2019, 2020 impressions are Feb - Sept 2020

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ACM Awards Brings

Live Music Back to Network

TV Songs, Safety and Surprises from Nashville

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K

eith Urban walked onto the Grand Ole Opry House stage on September 16, as the Grand Ole Opry member has so many times before, with one notable exception: There was no audience. Just one of the many oddities that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought us in 2020.

In place of clapping fans in the seats, there were beautiful flashing lights that the producers used to warm up the front of house and give fans watching at home a sense of community in the venue. Despite having no audience, Urban, host of the 55th ACM Awards used his warmth and charm to deliver “A Night of Heart and Hits Live from Nashville.” During its first time broadcasting from Music City, the ACM AWARDS® showcased three iconic venues: The Bluebird Cafe, Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry House. After bouncing around to all three venues for a medley from the five nominees for ACM Entertainer of the Year, Urban set the tone for the rest of the evening.

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“This has been an unprecedented and unsettling year,” said Urban. “Fans have been fighting wildfires, hurricanes and two pandemics — COVID-19 and social injustice — with far too many lives lost to both.”

To ease the pain and anxiety that those disasters have created around the world, the Country Music community, led by Urban, offered audiences at home stellar performances that focused on the comfort of Country Music, new hits and old favorites. Urban introduced newcomer Jimmie Allen at The Bluebird Cafe where he sang his No. 1 single “Make Me Want To” for his debut ACM Awards performance. Over the next three hours, the show pivoted between the Grand Ole Opry House, The Bluebird Cafe and Ryman Auditorium for performances from Luke Bryan (“One Margarita”) and Miranda Lambert, who performed her hit “Bluebird,” appropriately enough, at The Bluebird Cafe with fellow songwriters Natalie Hemby and Luke Dick. Miranda and friends Maren Morris, Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Gabby Barrett and Elle King were named winners of ACM Music Event of the Year for their version of “Fooled Around and Fell in Love.”

In addition to a medley from each ACM Entertainer of the Year nominee at the top of the show, reigning ACM Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion, offered up a hearty medley of their own hits. They later walked away with their third and fourth trophies for ACM Vocal Group of the ACM Year and Song of the Year honors for “One Man Band,” along with co-writer Josh Osborne.

Clockwise from top left: Keith Urban; Old Dominion; Luke Bryan; Jimmie Allen; Miranda Lambert

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Carrie Underwood also crafted a string of classic country hits to spotlight legendary ladies of the Grand Ole Opry in honor of the Grand Ole Opry’s 95th anniversary.

Morgan Wallen offered up his hit “Whiskey Glasses” complete with fans joining him in a virtual singalong via a video wall behind him onstage. Wallen’s fan wall was just one of many changes the COVID-19 pandemic brought to the ACM Awards this year. The show was postponed from an April date in Las Vegas, to a fall date in Nashville. “When we realized that we could no longer do the show in April, we started looking at where we could hold the show in September. We had no idea of what restrictions would still be in place. We knew for the artist’s safety, the best place to be was in Nashville to minimize travel. That started the long journey into coming up with the COVID safety plan in addition to finding venue space. When it was determined that we would go to the Opry, the Ryman and the Bluebird, we were able to coordinate with a COVID safety compliance company and dick clark productions to come up with a solid plan. There were many guidelines and restrictions in place from the various production guilds and unions. All in all, we’re very proud that we were able to keep everyone safe and put on one of the best ACM Awards ever,” says Executive Producer RAC Clark.

“In a year no one could have imagined, our team continued to pivot again and again as unanticipated issues popped up due to the panademic. The hurdles gave us a chance to bond like never before,” said Academy CEO Damon Whiteside. “I am so proud of our entire team, partners and board members for helping us put on a great show in the midst of historic upheaval.”

The first awards show back on the air after the lockdown, the Academy, show producers and production company, dcp, had to figure out how to go on with the show while keeping staff and artists safe.

(Read “Health & Safety First” on P. 27) The PR team configured a press room and robust radio remotes without anyone from the press or from radio actually being there. A huge virtual press room wall allowed both artists and reporters from across the country to interact with each other safely and virtually via computer. Artists stood in front of the wall, and were able to see the reporters and answer their questions.

Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani also came to fans via some virtual magic, as Shelton transformed a soundstage in Los Angeles into The Bluebird Cafe with the snap of his fingers. The couple performed “Anywhere With You.” Shelton also collected the ACM Single of the Year Award for “God’s Country.” “It’s a complete shock and an absolute honor,” Shelton said while accepting his trophy. Back in Nashville, Kane Brown offered a message of peace and hope with a song he wrote

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amidst the recent unrest called “Worldwide Beautiful,” which he performed on the Grand Ole Opry House stage with the Belmont choir adding a gospel feel from the balcony. Kelsea Ballerini gave the audience “Hole in the Bottle,” an up-tempo song that brought some fun and levity to the night.

As an exciting addition, Taylor Swift, a two-time ACM Entertainer of the Year, returned to the ACM Awards stage for the first time in seven years. She performed a stripped-down version of her song “betty” from her new album, folklore, on the Grand Ole Opry House stage. Also gracing the legendary stage was duo Florida Georgia Line, who brought an exciting energy to the broadcast with a performance of their hit “I Love My Country.”

Clockwise from top left: Taylor Swift; Carrie Underwood; Dan + Shay; Kelsea Ballerini; Morgan Wallen; Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani; Florida Georgia Line; Kane Brown

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Maren Morris performed her hit “To Hell and Back,” and was named ACM Female Artist of the Year. During her acceptance speech, she admitted with a laugh at the podium going through every new mom’s dilemma, “Oh, my God. I have to pee.” Backstage during an interview in the virtual press room, she said she never thought she’d win the ACM Female Artist Award.

“I feel like the female artist award is just so monumental,” Morris explained. “The women that have gone before me and won that award — that’s who I really should have thanked. I am so inspired by every single woman in that category. I’m friends with every nominee in that category, so I know how much we uplift and support each other in this community so it just feels amazing to walk away with and to also, you know, walk away with [ACM] Musical Event with Miranda and Caylee and Tenille and Ashley. So it’s just been like, the night of the ladies!”

Host Urban performed twice, first with friend and pop star P!nk by virtual wizardry, then he lent his piano-playing talents to an expectant Mickey Guyton, who sang “What Are You Gonna Tell Her,” for her daughter and as a wake-up call about how women are treated in this world. With that performance, Guyton became the first Black female Country artist to perform solo on the ACM Awards.

“You know, I’ve been pursuing music for a very long time and just to feel embraced by the Country Music community. I’ve always known that they’ve been so loving and to experience it for the first time like that, it has just been overwhelming,” said Guyton. “I’m pregnant and hormonal so I’ve been trying not to cry this whole time. But it is just, it really does mean so much to me to be embraced by this community.”

“Personally, I’m so moved by Mickey’s journey,” said presenter Cam. “You know it’s a tough gig to make it in this town. And the way she has gotten here and she’s singing this incredible song and singing her truth.

On top of it, we’ve had so few Black women in Country Music that have been a part of the mainstream … Obviously, this is about Mickey and her song, but you know what? It’s really nice to have a moment to celebrate this history.”

Guyton also joined forces with Wells Fargo to spread the word about the bank’s “Feeding America” program, which is experiencing a surge in the families that need help filling their pantries.

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Trisha Yearwood and Damon Whiteside

HEALTH & SAFETY FIRST As the first live awards show on network TV since the pandemic hit, the Academy and dick clark productions set the standard for protective measures to ensure everyone’s health and safety at the 55th ACM Awards. While there weren’t live audiences at any of the three venues, there was still a pared down crew of ACM staffers, dick clark productions crew members and artists who needed to be protected onsite. Anyone entering the locations was required to take a COVID-19 test beforehand — those expected to be in proximity to artists were tested daily.

Everyone was required to wear masks and other personal protective equipment while on location. Presenters and performers had their own microphone that they alone pulled out of a clean plastic bag. Winners’ envelopes were also sealed in sanitized bags for the presenters. Everyone on site was reminded to practice social distancing and was limited to specific zones.

“We spent months planning and consulting with our production partner, dick clark productions, as well as multiple health and safety experts creating protocols that exceeded federal, state and local guidelines to make sure everyone was safe — from production to talent,” said Erick Long, ACM senior vice president of Events.

“I don’t think anyone had on their bucket list to pull off a working press room in a pandemic, but it was really gratifying to see the team pull together to create something special and meaningful to both the artists and the press,” said Brooke Clockwise from top left: Maren Morris; Keith Urban and P!nk; Keith Urban and Mickey Guyton; Cam

Primero, senior vice president of Marketing. “We were the first to be able to offer talent and the press the opportunity to ‘see’ each other while the interviews took place, effectively giving an intimate conversation and some one-on-one opportunities — all while being very COVID-19 safe.”

In addition, the Academy produced the first-ever ACM virtual Radio Row, inviting all top-tier radio to participate with only artists affiliated with the actual production, to limit attendees for safety.

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In addition to Guyton’s charitable efforts, double ACM Award winner Luke Combs partnered with the Academy and the Ford “Guitars for Veterans” program to give vets brand new guitars to continue their music therapy to help them overcome PTSD and other scars of military service.

Performing at The Bluebird Cafe, Combs also took home some hardware of his own, winning for ACM Male Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for What You See is What You Get. “Yeah, performing tonight felt really good. It’s the first time I’ve performed outside of my garage in six or seven months so that was really nice,” Combs said.

“The tour bus has been parked outside of my house since March, and it’s been weird seeing it sit there, so to be able to come in town today and play at the Bluebird. Just being able to play and even be with one guy that’s in my band and play some music and get to win some trophies has been really great.”

Bringing some lighthearted fun to Ryman Auditorium, buddies Thomas Rhett and Jon Pardi did a cowboy shuffle across the stage during their duet “Beer Can’t Fix.” Also adding great music to the show were Gabby Barrett (“I Hope”), ACM New Female Artist Tenille Townes (“Somebody’s Daughter”) and ACM New Male Artist Riley Green (“I Wish Grandpas Never Died”).

Hitmaker and 18-time ACM Award-winner Tim McGraw performed his sentimental and perfect-for-the times tune “I Called Mama.”

Clockwise from top left: Jon Pardi and Thomas Rhett; Tenille Townes; Gabby Barrett; Luke Combs

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HE JUST KEEPS GETTING

STRONGER “GOT WHAT I GOT” #1 STREAMING COUNTRY SINGLE #1 CONSUMING COUNTRY SINGLE #1 SHAZAMED CURRENT COUNTRY SONG

NEXT UP FROM HIS 6TH CONSECUTIVE

#1 SELLING ALBUM, ‘9’

IMPACTING COUNTRY RADIO NOW acmcountry.com ®

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Bringing a powerful performance from the Grand Ole Opry House were multiple ACM Award nominees Dan + Shay with their latest “I Should Probably Go to Bed.” The pair won their second ACM Duo of the Year trophy.

“We are so proud to be part of this Country Music family,” Dan Smyers said at the podium. Shay Mooney explained further to reporters in the virtual press room backstage, “It’s all a little bit crazy and you know it feels very different than anyone is used to, but you know, we are just thankful to be here. Even though it looks very different, we’re able to enjoy live music and actually be able to see some of our friends, even if it is at a distance, it’s just nice to be here. Even seeing your faces on the screen, it feels like a little bit more of normalcy and getting to get back to work again.”

Calling him “an amazing songwriter,” Urban introduced ACM Entertainer of the Year nominee Eric Church, who wove legend Johnny Cash’s recitation of “Ragged Old Flag” into his own song for a powerful rendition of “Stick That In Your Country Song.” Trisha Yearwood used her world-class voice to remember those who have passed away this year, performing “I’ll Carry You Home.”

Clockwise from top left: Dan + Shay; Riley Green; Tim McGraw; Eric Church; Trisha Yearwood

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Other winners included ACM Video of the Year “Remember You Young” for Thomas Rhett and director TK McKamy. Presenters included CeCe Winans, Clint Black and Lisa Hartman Black, Darius Rucker, Bobby Bones, Lauren Alaina, Runaway June, Cam, and model Lily Aldridge.

In a historic end to the night, Carrie Underwood and Thomas Rhett tied for ACM Entertainer of the Year, a first in Academy history.

“Keith, what is happening right now?” a surprised Rhett laughed while accepting his trophy.

During interviews in the virtual press room, Underwood was asked about becoming a hero for many young artists, the way other female country artists were

Top: Carrie Underwood; Thomas Rhett Above from left to right: CeCe Winans; Clint Black and Lisa Hartman Black; Darius Rucker; Lauren Alaina; Bobby Bones; Lily Aldridge; Runaway June

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for her. Underwood is the only female artist to win ACM Entertainer of the Year three times. How does she feel about becoming an icon herself?

“I don’t think I could ever look at myself like that because I feel like a tourist still, you know and I always say I’m waiting for people to figure me out and leave me behind or something,” Underwood said. “I don’t know. But I will never look at myself that way. I got to sing their songs tonight, as well as so many more. I’m always really glad to hear when people like what I do, and I would love to be able to give advice or anything anyway that I can. But that’s kind of a tough question to answer.” —LISA LEE

Congratulations to all the ACM Awards Nominees & Winners

1000 stories is proud to be the official wine partner of the academy of country music ©2020 1000 STORIES, HOPLAND, MENDOCINO CO., CA

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WINNERS ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR Carrie Underwood Thomas Rhett FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Maren Morris MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Luke Combs DUO OF THE YEAR Dan + Shay

GROUP OF THE YEAR Old Dominion NEW FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Tenille Townes NEW MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Riley Green SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR Hillary Lindsey

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ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/ Record Company–Label(s)

What You See Is What You Get Luke Combs PRODUCER: Scott Moffatt RECORD LABEL: River House Artists/ Columbia Nashville

SINGLE OF THE YEAR

Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/ Record Company–Label(s)

“God’s Country”

Blake Shelton PRODUCER: Scott Hendricks RECORD LABEL: Warner Bros. (Nashville)

SONG OF THE YEAR

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Awarded to Producer(s)/ Director(s)/Artist(s)

“Remember You Young” Thomas Rhett DIRECTOR: TK McKamy PRODUCER: Dan Atchison

MUSIC EVENT OF THE YEAR

Awarded to Artist(s)/ Producer(s)/Record Company–Label(s)

“Fooled Around and Fell In Love”

Miranda Lambert Featuring Maren Morris, Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Caylee Hammack & Elle King PRODUCER: Jay Joyce RECORD LABELS: Vanner Records / RCA Records Nashville

Awarded to Songwriter(s)/ Publisher(s)/Artist(s)

“One Man Band”

Old Dominion WRITERS: Josh Osborne / Matthew Ramsey / Trevor Rosen / Brad Tursi

PUBLISHERS: WB Music Corp/ Smackville Music/Smack Songs LLC (ASCAP) adm by Kobalt Songs Music Publishing. Rezsongs/Reehits World/Smacktown Music, a division of Smack Blue, LLC adm. by Me Gusta Music. Unfair Entertainment/ Twelve6 Dogwood (ASCAP) adm. by Downtown DLJ Songs. We're Really Doin’ It Publishing (ASCAP) adm by Words & Music. Sony/ATV Cross Keys Publishing/Smackville Music/Smack Songs LLC (ASCAP) adm. by Kobalt Songs Music Publishing.

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Radio F

“Remotes”

or the first time ever, the Academy of Country Music® self-produced a virtual yet extremely successful Radio Row with all major radio entities represented for millions of impressions nationally setting the new Awards standard for how to pull off a Radio Remote safely. “Nothing was easy this year for the ACM staff, yet they pulled together the radio remotes and made it look easy,” said Cumulus’ Charlie Cook, Chair of the ACM Radio Task Force. “Their commitment to providing a forum for the artists to connect with radio and their understanding of how important radio is to the success of Country Music and to the millions of Country Radio listeners drove the staff to present an amazing couple of days. Thank you so much for caring and sharing.”

Artists described their feelings of excitement to be at the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards among their peers and their joy to be performing for fans via an outlet other than Zoom or Facebook Live. Aside from this elation, artists shared with Radio Row their quarantine experiences, hobbies, and ways of de-stressing — many of which involved creating new music in all their downtime. —LIBBY GARDNER

Clockwise from top: Luke Bryan; Lauren Alaina; Shay Mooney; Cam

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EP FEATURING THE FOCUS TRACK

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“RUNAWAY JUNE'S SIGNATURE BLEND OF COUNTRY STRINGS AND HARMONIES FEATURED ON EVERY SONG.” – POP CULTURE acmcountry.com

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Radio Row Clockwise from top: Hillary Scott; Riley Green; Jimmie Allen; Maren Morris; Tenille Townes; Lindsay Ell

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#1 TIKTOK SOUND ON US COUNTRY CHART

18.3K TIKTOK VIDEOS CREATED USING VARIOUS VERSIONS OF “MY BOY” SOUND

“I CONNECTED WITH THIS SONG IMMEDIATELY. HE HAS AN INSTANTLY CONTAGIOUS SOUND THAT REALLY STANDS OUT. GREAT WRITING AND HE ROCKS YOUR SOCKS OFF! SOUTHERN ROCK RETURNS WITH ELVIE.” - KERRY WOLFE, WMIL / MILWAUKEE

“THERE’S ALWAYS A SONG THAT YOU WEREN’T EXPECTING TO COME ALONG, AND IT DOES AND KNOCKS YOU OFF YOUR BUTT. THIS IS THAT SONG. SO GOOD, SO WELL DONE.” - NATE DEATON, KRTY/SAN JOSE

“IN A SEA OF SOUND-ALIKE SINGERS, IT'S REFRESHING TO HAVE A VOICE THAT'S LIKE NONE OTHER OUT THERE. BETTER YET, ELVIE SHANE HAS SONGS THAT CONNECT. WE CAN USE MORE OF THAT COMBINATION ON COUNTRY RADIO.” - JIM MURPHY, MUSIC CHOICE

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Radio Row Clockwise from top left: Kelsea Ballerini; Mickey Guyton; Jordan Davis; Caylee Hammack; Lee Brice

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INTRODUCING

D EB U T S I N G L E

Y’ALLSOME O U T

NOW

“ P r y o r & L e e br ing som e ove r due r owd y to Cou n try R ad i o wi th d ebu t si n g l e ‘ Y’al l som e.’”

“ I t ’s a shout- out t o C ount r y’s p arty-h earty fan s wh o kn ow h ow to g et d own .

Pr y or Ba ir d a nd Ka le b Lee were b oth sol o fi n al i sts on The Voice .

To g e t he r, t hey sur e ca n k ick u p some d u st. Th i s on e’s a sl am-ban g j am.”

“ N e w c o m er duo Pr yo r & Le e hit t he g as on th ei r Cou n try career wi th th ei r d ebu t si n g le, d r opping t he ha m m e r o n a h i g h -octan e p arty starter ti tl ed , ‘ Y’al l some.’”

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STAYING

From sneak peek photos to stories of thankfulness and perseverance, artists kept fans informed and entertained about their journey to and participation in the 55th ACM Awards.

SOCIAL

CARRIE UNDERWOOD

@CarrieUnderwood Last night was a dream! Thanks #ACMawards and, of course, fans for continuing to make some of my wildest dreams come true! And congrats to all the winners, nominees and performers! I am forever grateful to be a part of this family called Country Music!

MICKEY GUYTON

@mickeyguyton Still in disbelief this just happened. Performing "What Are You Gonna Tell Her?" at the @opry for the @acmawards was so incredibly special. Something I will remember forever. Thank you @keithurban for joining me. #ACMAwards

THOMAS RHETT

@thomasrhettmusic If you would have told me on this night last year — The final night of my 2019 tour — that I wouldn’t be playing another show again for the forseeable future — that our 2020 tour would not be happening — that every single thing we planned would be rescheduled or canceled — that our year would be spent at home, with our families — behind masks and for some of us battling a virus none of us had heard of — I don’t think I would’ve believed you. If you had then told me I’d be named 2020 ACM Entertainer of the Year, I would have believed you even less. I am so honored to share this award with someone as unbelievable as Carrie Underwood.

There is not enough space here to properly thank all the people who have helped me along this journey and tell them how I feel about them. More on that to follow. For now, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to the ACM — Academy of Country Music’s and all of you for this incredible honor

DARIUS RUCKER

@dariusrucker Good times at the #ACMawards tonight!

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L I LY A L D R I D G E

@lilyaldridge First time out in A MINUTEEE Thank you for having me @acmawards @cbstv Wearing @proenzaschouler x #Mask

A C M AWA R D S

@taylorswift just showed up at our party #ACMawards

RILEY GREEN

@RileyGreenMusic It meant a lot to get to perform on the #ACMawards last night for the first time as the new male artist of the year. If you missed it…you can still watch The 55th #ACMawards for free on CBS.com and the CBS app.

CAM

@camcountry Bus parking is the new red carpet BIG thank you to the @acmawards and @dcp for adapting to give us a show AND give crew & production teams an opportunity to work safely

JIMMIE ALLEN

@jimmieallen TENILLE TOWNES

@TenilleTownes My seven year old self is really losing her mind right now ha. Very first @acmawards Show performance. That was so fun and terrifying and awesome.

What a dream!! #ACMawards

My Dad would be so proud of this moment and God knows I miss him so much. Such a great feeling to have a song I wrote with 2 friends go to #1 on country radio and get to perform it on the @acmawards.

Watch the show now on @CBS and @CBSAllAccess! #ACMawards #MakeMeWantTo

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B L A K E S H E LT O N

@blakeshelton Y’all think I should bring back this look for the @acmawards? #Throwback

B L A K E S H E LT O N

@blakeshelton WOW! Single of the year!

Damn y’all after all these years I’m still always so shocked and honored. Thank you to everyone who played a part in this song... THIS IS GOD’S COUNTRY!!! #ACMawards

D A N + S H AY

CECE WINANS

@danandshay

@cecewinans

feels good to be back at the @acmawards! tune in tonight for the television debut of i should probably go to bed. also, this is maybe the 3rd time we’ve worn anything other than sweatpants since quarantine started lol.

Thank you @acmawards for allowing me to present Female Artist of the Year Award tonight. Congratulations to all the winners! #acmawards #neverlost

MAREN MORRIS

@marenmorris

FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE

@FLAGALine Grateful to be part of such a special evening. Thank you @ACMawards!!

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I am completely floored (and a little hungover) from last night. Also, since we’re usually in Vegas for the @acmawards, but you know, 2020, my team made my back porch Vegas themed for when we got home.

Featuring 2 brand new Christmas originals, “Merry Married ChristMas” and “We Need ChristMas”

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from the

press room The 55th ACM Awards press room looked a little different this year, but the artists joy, excitement and thankfulness proved a virtual press room can be just as powerful

“I would always love to see more women and see more women represented and given opportunities, but we’ve been taking steps in the right direction for a while now, which is really nice to see. And like tonight, you know, not only having newer artists — Tenille Townes and Mickey Guyton get to get onstage and do what they do — but also me getting to honor some of the women that we’re all standing on their shoulders, as I said. So it was just, I think it was a really great night for that, for females in Country Music and I look forward to more. Because again, you can’t have too much of a good thing.”

— CARRIE UNDERWOOD

“The first time that I was ever here at the Bluebird was actually, they do a benefit for the entire month of January and me and one of the members of my band, Rob Wilford, came and we got the last two tickets. And it was to see Jesse Alexander and Tom Douglas and Chris Stapleton and Dan Wilson here in the round. And we sat there and watched, and I remember thinking to myself, ‘Man, we should probably move home because we’re totally not these people.’ And a couple of years later I was, I was playing in the round here with Randy Montana and Jonathan Singleton and myself and one of my best friends, Ray Fulcher. So, to be here tonight and to get to play live for everybody and take a couple of awards home has been a real full circle moment and just really unbelievable.”

—LUKE COMBS

“I mean this whole thing, you know I mean obviously the precautions that they’ve put in place we are very very thankful for. Even though it looks very different, we’re able to enjoy live music and actually be able to see some of our friends, even if it is at a distance, it’s just nice to be here. Even seeing your faces on the screen, it feels a little bit more of normalcy and getting to get back to work again.”

—SHAY MOONEY “ To get to watch the live performances — just tuning in, seeing Luke Combs, Eric Church, TR, all these folks up there rocking it, is awesome. It reminds us of what we’re missing and I think 2021, like when we get back out on the road, is gonna be such an exciting year for live Country Music.” —DAN SMYERS

“RAC Clark, who produces the show, has just done a fantastic job with making the show happen with weird circumstances. Damon Whiteside, the CEO of the ACM, I mean, I’ve known the guy for a while and we’ve talked throughout the year where he’s been like, ‘Alright, Vegas may not happen, let’s move it to Nashville but do it live.’ He’s constantly pivoted and I think he’s pivoted so strongly that we’re here tonight and there is a great show happening. So, you know, it wouldn’t have happened without them. So just pretty pumped that we get to even be here and have a show that’s live and for the fans of Country Music.” —BOBBY BONES

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“I mean, there’s countless times where my manager, Virginia, has asked me, ‘What are your goals for the next five years? What are your goals for the next 10 years?’ And winning Entertainer of the Year was definitely on — it was the top, number one on the list. And just, you know tonight being here at the Opry, getting to hear an idol of mine, Keith Urban, mention my name along with Carrie Underwood , it was just like — it made me feel like I’m not the new guy anymore … Tonight is just such a dream, I don’t know how to put it into words.” —THOMAS RHETT

“That whole phrase, ‘You see it, You can be it’ really rings true. And the only reason why I felt that I could pursue Country Music was because I saw another black woman singing Country Music, named Rissi Palmer. And if it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be here. So, me standing on that stage representing just women of color period, it shows them that they have the opportunity too and they can sing whatever kind of music they want to sing. It doesn’t just have to be just R&B, if they want to sing Country Music they can, and they will be accepted by this beautiful community.” —MICKEY GUYTON

“Usually you’re talking to a giant crowd and you’re looking out at people you know and love.

And suddenly I was looking out into this void and that was, that was just the first thing I felt, was these people that were so important to us that aren’t here with us anymore, but I just felt their presence and that was really all I could really do was acknowledge that.” — OLD DOMINION, MATTHEW RAMSEY

“I feel like the Female Vocalist Award is just so monumental.

The women that have gone before me and won that award — that’s how I really should have thanked, now I’m just realizing it … I am so inspired by every single woman in that category.

I’m friends with every nominee in that category, so I know how much we uplift and support each other in this community so it just feels amazing to walk away with and to also, you know, walk away with [ACM] Musical Event with Miranda and Caylee and Tenille and Ashley. So it’s just been the night of the ladies.” —MAREN MORRIS

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from the

press room “Being a part of the ACM Lifting Lives® moment, that for me was one of the most joyful experiences I’ve ever had. And even though it was through Zoom, I mean you could feel the love from these people and how excited they were to be making a song.

I mean, I almost cried like three times, it was — it was such a joyful moment. And to be able to write a song with those sweet, amazing, talented, beautiful people, it was really something to be a part of.”

—RUNAWAY JUNE

“I’ve been a part of the diversity and inclusion efforts with the ACM and with that comes a lot of wonderful moments and a lot of understanding of how far we have to go.

And personally, I’m so moved by Mickey’s journey just watching — you know it’s a tough gig to make it in this town. And the way she has gotten here and she’s singing this incredible song and singing her truth.

And on top of it to know that we know we’ve had so few black women in Country Music that have been a part of the mainstream. It’s really nice to have a moment to celebrate this history. It’s not very often you get to see something in the moment and you actually know it’s history happening.“ — CAM

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“This entire year has been an odd situation for me. I feel like I’ve been trying to adapt since March. So I’m getting a little bit better now, but definitely walking out into the Grand Ole Opry with no people there is such a different experience. I did play a show at the Grand Ole Opry during this quarantine, so I had a little bit of a, of an experience in the room empty but it’s definitely different. I just really tried to picture everyone that was behind the screen and connect with them.”

—LAUREN ALAINA

CORPORATE PARTNERS

WE’D LIKE TO EXPRESS A SINCERE THANK YOU

to our corporate partners for their support of the Academy of Country Music and the 55th ACM Awards.

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RIGHT: ACM Senior Vice President Brooke Primero and Executive Producer Barry Adelman

From left to right: Patrick Menton, Amy Thurlow, executive producer; Barry Adelman, executive producer; RAC Clark, executive producer; Raj Kapoor; Damon Whiteside, executive producer/ACM CEO

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“A ROCKER AND A SCHOLAR, A POET AND A PARTIER, A SONGWRITER AND A SINNER— IT ALL PLAYS INTO WHO THE RISING COUNTRY MUSIC STAR IS AT HIS CORE.” – AMERIC AN SONGWRITER

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Clockwise from top: Bobby Bones; Mickey Guyton; Eric Church; Maddie Stessman, Chuck Aly, Tommy Moore, Lori Badgett, Erik Long; Luke Dick; Natalie Hemby

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STAY UP TO DATE WITH INFORMATION ON

THE CURRENT STATE OF LIVE MUSIC

LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY

AVAILABLE RESOURCES

FOR MORE INFO VISIT

ACMCOUNTRY.COM/LIVEMUSIC_RESOURCES acmcountry.com

55

I N M E M O RY

Mac Davis: I Believe In Music 1942 – 2020

M

ac Davis, the 1974 ACM Entertainer of the Year and a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, died in Nashville on September 29, following heart surgery. He was 78.

With lyrical wit and a warm persona, Davis made his biggest mark at country radio in the 1980s with Top 10 singles like “It’s Hard to Be Humble,” “Texas in My Rear View Mirror,” “Hooked on Music” and “You’re My Bestest Friend,” all of which he wrote. The versatile performer also crossed over to pop music, TV, film and Broadway, making him among the most recognizable artists of his generation.

Davis was born on January 21, 1942, in Lubbock, Texas. He lived there with his father until going to college in Atlanta, where his mother resided. Neither his early recordings with a rock band called The Zots nor his solo singles went anywhere, so he took radio promotion work.

A job offer with Liberty Records prompted a move to Los Angeles, where he signed a songwriting contract with Nancy Sinatra’s publishing company.

During this period, Elvis Presley recorded multiple songs by Davis, including “In the Ghetto” and “Don’t Cry Daddy,” which Davis wrote alone, as well as “A Little Less Conversation” and “Memories,” which he wrote with Billy Strange. Davis also landed singles with Glen Campbell (“Everything a Man Could Ever Need”), Gallery (“I Believe

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Mac Davis accepts the 1974 ACM Entertainer of the Year award at the Hollywood Palladium.

Also pictured left and right of Davis are Glen Campbell and Claude Akins.

in Music”), Bobby Goldsboro (“Watching Scotty Grow”), Ray Price (“The Lonesomest Lonesome”), and Kenny Rogers and the First Edition (“Something’s Burning”).

The title of Davis’ debut album, Song Painter, eventually became his nickname.

Signed to Columbia, he finally broke out as a recording artist with his 1972 classic, “Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me,” which he wrote.

The pop single spent three weeks at No. 1 and rose to No. 26 on the country chart. The album of the same name received an ACM nomination.

By this time considered a sex symbol, Davis continued to chart at pop radio with “One Hell of a Woman,” “Stop and Smell the Roses” and “Rock ‘N’ Roll (I Gave You the Best Years of My Life).” Based on the popularity of his NBC variety series (1974 to 1976), he won the ACM’s Entertainer of the Year trophy for 1974. His highest-charting country single on Columbia, 1976’s “Forever Lovers,” peaked at No. 17.

Starting in 1980, Davis began issuing country singles for the Casablanca label, with six of them reaching the Top 10. Subsequently signed to MCA, he secured his final Top 10

release in 1985 with Bob McDill’s “I Never Made Love (Till I Made Love With You).”

In 1989, Davis and Dolly Parton co-wrote the title track to her 1989 album, White Limozeen. In more recent years, he collaborated with Avicii on the dance smash “Addicted to You,” and earned a songwriting credit on Bruno Mars’ “Young Girls” and Weezer’s “Time Flies.”

Davis acted in multiple movies and TV series, beginning with the 1979 film, “North Dallas Forty.” While he considered himself retired by the early 1990s, he did accept the lead role in a Broadway production of Will Rogers Follies, although he’d never acted on stage before. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1998.

Davis is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, and a recipient of the elite BMI Icon award. Two of his albums have been certified platinum, with four others reaching gold.

True to the lyrics of “Texas in My Rear View Mirror,” Davis was buried in Lubbock, Texas, in his jeans. ●

BY C R A I G S H E L B U R N E

J.T Corenflos

Jerry Jeff Walker

Billy Joe Shaver

1963 – 2020

1942 – 2020

1939 – 2020

J.T. Corenflos, one of the most prominent session guitarists in Nashville for the last three decades, died October 24 from lung cancer. He was 56.

Corenflos received 13 ACM nominations for Guitar Player of the Year and claimed the award for 2012.

He recorded with country superstars like Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood, and his electric guitar can be heard on nearly 75 No. 1 country singles.

Born on November 6, 1963, Corenflos grew up in Terre Haute, Ind., where his father was a carpenter and his mother worked at the Columbia Records pressing plant. During his teen years, he played locally, wherever he could, until he moved to Nashville in 1982 to work for Grand Ole Opry star Jean Shepard. He later toured with Joe Stampley (and sometimes Moe Bandy) throughout the ’80s.

Corenflos began to transition to studio work in 1990. His relentless networking helped him land demo sessions, and in time, he formed the group Palomino Road, which made one record for Capitol/Liberty Records in 1992. When the band dissolved, Corenflos devoted his time to recording on other artists’ projects.

In the ’90s, Corenflos could be heard on albums by Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw and Tanya Tucker. He established himself as a first-call musician by the 2000s and played on defining hits such as Dierks Bentley’s “What Was I Thinkin’,” Randy Houser’s “Boots On” and Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats.”

He released a solo album, Somewhere Under the Radar, in 2015.

Ronnie Dunn of Brooks & Dunn said, “JT was one of the best telecaster string benders I’ve known. It was JT that played that opening infectious guitar lick on ‘Play Something Country.’

He was a joy to work with and be around. He was a humble, patient and kind man. He will be missed.”

Jerry Jeff Walker, who wrote the enduring song “Mr. Bojangles” and soon after shaped the live music scene in Texas, died October 23 of throat cancer. He was 78.

Walker was born as Ronald Clyde Crosby on March 16, 1942, in Oneanta, N.Y. As a teenager, he began rambling across the country, spending time in Key West, New Orleans and New York City. He composed “Mr. Bojangles” after encountering an old dancer in a New Orleans jail who used that name.

Walker released the song himself on Atco Records in 1968, but it would take years before “Mr. Bojangles” became a calling card for Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, who claimed a Top 10 pop hit with it in 1971. That same year, Walker moved to Austin and made his self-titled 1972 album there.

Recorded live in 1973, ¡Viva Terlingua! is considered a landmark recording by Texas audiences and artists alike. Not only did it convey the easygoing feel of an old dance hall in Luckenbach, but the project also boosted the profile of then-unknown songwriters such as Guy Clark, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Michael Martin Murphey and Gary P. Nunn. Billed with the Lost Gonzo Band, Walker and his comrades used hay bales to absorb sound, then titled the album after a bumper sticker on the front door.

During this same time, Austin embraced a new kind of Country Music, later described as “cosmic” or “progressive,” with Walker as a cornerstone of that community. With his genuine (if well-worn) singing voice, he released seven albums on MCA Records during the ’70s, but success at country radio eluded him. He and his wife, Susan, whom he married in 1974, then brought their business in-house via their Tried and True label. Walker released his final album, It’s About Time, in 2018.

Billy Joe Shaver, a 2018 recipient of the ACM Poet’s Award, died on October 28 from a stroke. He was 81.

Shaver was born on August 16, 1939, and grew up in the small town of Corsicana, Texas. After a hardscrabble youth, which can be traced through many of his most eloquent songs, Shaver met Waylon Jennings at a guitar pull in Dripping Springs, Texas, in 1972. Casually encouraged by the legendary singer, Shaver tracked him down in Nashville to pitch some songs. True to his word but admittedly reluctant, Jennings took a break from his recording session and listened to Shaver sing the material — and subsequently recorded an album almost entirely composed of Shaver’s songs, 1973’s Honky Tonk Heroes.

That breakthrough paved the way for hits like John Anderson’s “I’m Just an Old Chunk of Coal” and Johnny Rodriguez’s “I Couldn’t Be Me Without You.” In the 1970s, Shaver recorded for the Monument and Capricorn labels, then moved to Columbia Records in the 1980s. He experienced a career resurgence in the ’90s by recording as a duo billed as Shaver, paired with his son, Eddy, on electric guitar.

After Eddy’s death in 2000, Billy Joe Shaver maintained a touring and recording career for years to come, performing enduring originals like “Black Rose,” “Georgia on a Fast Train,” “Live Forever” and “Old Five and Dimers Like Me.” Other notable cuts include Bobby Bare’s “Ride Me Down Easy,” Patty Loveless’ “When the Fallen Angels Fly” and Elvis Presley’s “You Asked Me To.” His songs have also been recorded by Johnny Cash, David Allan Coe, Tom T. Hall and Kris Kristofferson.

Shaver was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004. He was recognized by the Country Music Hall of Fame in its Poets and Prophets series in 2018.

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ACM M O M E NT

Girl Power 51st ACM Awards

MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas | April 3, 2016 The talented Mickey Guyton and Cam spend time together backstage at the 51st ACM Awards.

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