Morgan Wallen at the CMA's: Awards, Nominations & Performances

Morgan Wallen at the CMA’s

Morgan Wallen has become one of the most talked-about artists in country music, and his appearances at the Country Music Association Awards (CMA’s) have been eventful and memorable.

From award nominations to powerful performances, here’s a rundown of Wallen’s journey at the CMA’s.

1. First CMA Nomination (2019)

• Wallen received his first CMA nomination in 2019 for New Artist of the Year, marking his debut recognition at the event.
• This nomination solidified his status as a rising star in country music, as he was recognized alongside fellow up-and-comers.

2. Winning New Artist of the Year (2020)

• In 2020, Wallen won his first CMA award for New Artist of the Year.

3. Acceptance Speech: New Artist of the Year (2020)

• This win followed the success of his debut album, If I Know Me, and its popular singles like “Chasin’ You.”
• It was a significant moment, as Wallen had quickly transitioned from an emerging artist to one of the genre’s most promising new talents.

4. First Ever Performance: Whiskey Glasses (2020)

Wallen performed his breakout hit, “Whiskey Glasses,” bringing energy and enthusiasm to the CMA stage for the first time.

5. Performance: More Than My Hometown (2020)

In a stripped-down, heartfelt performance, Wallen captivated the audience with “More Than My Hometown.” The song, which became a chart-topping hit, showcased Wallen’s storytelling ability and emotional depth.

6. Album of the Year Nomination for Dangerous: The Double Album (2021)

• Wallen’s 2021 double album, Dangerous, became a commercial powerhouse and was later nominated for Album of the Year at the 2021 CMA Awards.
• The album broke records, spending multiple weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, a rarity for a country album.
• This nomination further established him as one of country music’s top artists.

7. Suspended from the CMA Awards (2021)

• Reason: The CMA banned Wallen from attending and participating in individual artist categories due to a video of him yelling a racial slur at a friend in February 2021. The CMA’s decision was made to avoid penalizing Wallen’s co-writers and producers.
• Exceptions: Wallen’s album, songs, and music videos were still eligible for awards but did not win 

8. Performance: You Proof (2022)

Returning to the CMA stage, Wallen delivered a soulful rendition of “You Proof,” a song that topped country charts.

9. "Walked in tonight a winner, didn’t leave no different" (2023)

Morgan Wallen was nominated for three categories at the 2023 CMA Awards: Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Album of the Year for One Thing at a Time. Despite his significant commercial success in 2023, Wallen did not take home any awards.

10. Performance with Eric Church: Man Made a Bar (2023)

The crowd responded enthusiastically, with many fans singing along to the heartfelt lyrics. Wallen and Church both received a standing ovation, underscoring the song’s popularity and the impact of their collaboration.

11. Performance with Post Malone & HARDY: Joe Diffie Tribute Medley

Came together for a medley tribute to Joe Diffie, covering Diffie’s songs “John Deere Green” and “Pickup Man” at the 2023 CMA Awards