Sony BMG Nashville chairman Joe Galante was presented the CMA President's Award by the Country Music Association during the organization's board of directors meeting on Thursday (Sept. 25). In surprising him with the award, CMA president Randy Goodman cited Galante's leadership, creative thinking and dedication during almost 25 years on the CMA's board of directors. Galante oversees Sony BMG's country division which includes the RCA, Arista, BNA and Columbia labels and an artist roster featuring Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert and Jessica Simpson, among others.