"It was at the CMT Awards last year that I gave my very first acceptance speech ever. Let me tell you, it’s great to be up here again. Thank you, fans. I’ve had such an amazing, blessed two years. I started out on a fan-based show, and you guys have continued to support me throughout everything."

"To the fans, we wish every show was fan-voted. You’re the reason why we make records. We thank you for all your love and support."

"I want to thank ... all the fans out there who have come to see us throughout the years. And, really, I want to thank [director] Shaun Silva who continues to raise the bar to a place where a lot of people still try to reach. I’m proud of him."

"Just to be mentioned in the same breath as Johnny Cash is an honor. And to be nominated with Jimmy Buffett and Sheryl Crow, I’m honored."

"About 42 years ago, back when I was still wearing an Army uniform and I was older than Hank Williams was when he died, I shook Johnny Cash’s hand backstage at the Ryman Auditorium. And it changed my life. He was my hero. He was my inspiration. He was my champion. And ultimately, incredibly, he was my friend."

"Fans, once again, thank you guys so much. You’ve been so wonderful to me. Everybody at the fan club, you guys are amazing."

"I’ve got to thank Carrie. She’s one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met."

"This guy’s amazing. I love you, Roman."

"Thank you, CMT. Thank you to the fans. How exciting. We love that you vote for this. It makes it that much more special."

"This is for my MySpace people and everybody who voted. The fans, y’all, I’m going out on tour with Brad Paisley, and this is coming with me to every single [autograph] signing line, so you can get a picture of the award you won for me. Thank you so much."