The CMT Music Awards is an annual, fan-voted awards show that focuses on country music videos and televised performances. The event started out in 1967, when it was known as the Music City News Awards after the now-defunct Music City News magazine, and featured categories that focused on artists themselves instead of performances. Early on, a panel of judges voted to determine the winners, but the show's now-beloved format of fan voting was instated in 1988, allowing listeners to vote for their favorite artists by phone or mail. In 2001, the show began broadcasting on CMT, where it became first the CMT Flameworthy Video Music Awards and then, finally, the CMT Music Awards in 2005. By 2002, the show had fully shifted to represent a focus on music videos and televised country music performances.
CMT Music Awards
Country Stars Tribute Late Lynyrd Skynyrd Founder at 2023 CMTs
It was a fitting tribute to a late legend.
Cody Johnson Wins CMT Performance of the Year at 2023 CMTs
He kept it real with fans in his acceptance speech.
Cody Johnson Brings 'Human' to the 2023 CMT Music Awards
Johnson showed off his live chops with this potent power ballad.
Gwen Stefani, Carly Pearce Bring 'Just a Girl' to 2023 CMT Awards
Pearce joined Stefani for an energetic take on the No Doubt classic.
Kane Brown + Katelyn Brown Take Home the CMT Video of the Year
It was the biggest award of the night.
Megan Moroney Nabs Breakthrough Female Video at the 2023 CMTs
This up-and-comer is a star in the making.
Carrie Underwood Dazzles With 'Hate My Heart' at the 2023 CMTs
Underwood brought fireworks, glitz and glamour to the 2023 CMT Music Awards stage.
Lainey Wilson + More Join Alanis Morissette at CMT Awards
It was all about women power on this one!
Lainey Wilson Brings Fiery 'Heart Like a Truck' to the 2023 CMTs
Wilson hit the stage like an 18-wheeler for this powerhouse performance.