CMA Awards   -  Archives

Singer-songwriter Alan Jackon continues his dominance of the entertainer of the year award. Jackson also wins male vocalist and his duet with Jimmy Buffett, "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere," earns the vocal event award. The pair perform the hit onstage and while the upbeat tune opens the show, there is a respectful solemness to the rest of the evening. Country Music Hall of Famer Johnny Cash has passed away a few weeks prior. Cash's American IV: The Man Comes Around is named album of the year and his intense song, "Hurt," receives the single and music video of the year awards. Superstars Sheryl Crow, Travis Tritt, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Hank Williams Jr. perform a collection of Cash's biggest hits in a heartfelt tribute. Martina McBride wins her third female vocalist award and the traditionalist Joe Nichols receives the Horizon Award. In light of the recent Dixie Chicks/President Bush controversy, Rascal Flatts unseat the trio as vocal group of the year. Legendary pianist Floyd Cramer and singer Carl Smith are welcomed into the Country Music Hall of Fame.