Introduction
In November 2024, at the 58th Annual CMA Awards, country music legend George Strait was presented with the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor marks one of the highest recognitions in country music, reserved for artists whose careers reflect enduring artistry, philanthropic impact, and broad cultural influence . Cloaked in respect and history, this accolade has previously celebrated icons such as Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Alan Jackson .
The televised tribute featured a star‑studded lineup of artists performing Strait’s signature songs: Lainey Wilson opened with “Amarillo By Morning,” Jamey Johnson sang “Give It Away,” Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum delivered a rendition of “Troubadour,” and finally, Strait himself joined Chris Stapleton to perform “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame” . The performances embodied Strait’s influence on both his peers and the next generation of country artists.
Introduced by CMA CEO Sarah Trahern, the award recognized Strait as “authentically Texas and authentically country,” and noted he is the most‑nominated CMA artist of all time, with 83 nominations and 17 wins, including three Entertainer of the Year awards (1989, 1990, and 2013) . His unprecedented streak of Top 10 hits every single year for over 30 years, combined with sales of over 70 million albums and 60 No. 1 singles, underscores his ongoing dominance in country music .
This tribute segment—aptly titled “Iconic Collaborations”—not only celebrated Strait’s storied catalog, but also illustrated the respect and affection held for him by today’s artists. Hearing interpretations of his classics reaffirmed his legacy as a guiding light in country music, and his own performance with Stapleton served as a crowning moment of recognition and camaraderie. The entire sequence provided a resonant reminder of George Strait’s continued relevance and artistic stature.
Video
In honor of the King of Country Music, George Strait, Lainey Wilson sings “Amarillo By Morning,” Jamey Johnson sings “Give It Away,” Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum collaborate on “Troubadour” and Chris Stapleton joins the king himself for “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame.” “The 58th Annual CMA Awards” aired on ABC from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee on November 20, 2024. Country Music’s Biggest Night™ is available to stream on Hulu now!
About CMA:
Founded in 1958, the Country Music Association (CMA) is the premier trade association of the Country Music industry. Representing professionals making a living in Country Music globally, the organization serves as a critical resource of support and information, honors excellence in the genre and provides a forum for industry leadership. CMA is dedicated to expanding Country Music around the world through a number of core programs and initiatives including the organization’s three annual television properties—the CMA Awards, “CMA Fest” and “CMA Country Christmas,” all of which air on ABC. The organization’s philanthropic arm, the CMA Foundation, works tirelessly to provide equitable access to music education in order to create impactful change for students and teachers across the United States.