A Tribute To The King Of Country At The CMA Awards
Dressed in his signature hat, George Strait who was honored with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award overshadowed the 2024 CMA Awards in the most impressive way. The ceremony featured emotional tributes to the “King of Country” filled with songs by the… Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton and other country music stars.
By the time he finished making his way to the stage, the 72 year old Strait was quite grateful and considered the award but particularly remembered the elevation in status that comes from the list of honorees. Strait started by expressing his gratitude to the CMAs for including his name among the prestigious recipients associated with the legendary Willie Nelson. He joked, thanking the artists who sang his songs at the event, saying, “I’m happy I recorded them before you did.”
In a sincere moment, Strait shifted his focus to his family, who were in the crowd. He specially acknowledged his wife, Norma Strait, of almost 53 years, for her constant support during his career. Particularly Norma, who has been my strong supporter for almost 53 years now, since December. It’s been an amazing 53 years, too,” he said, also thanking his son Bubba, daughter-in-law Tamara, and grandchildren Jilliann and Harvey.
Strait’s speech was also a tribute to the late members of his inner circle, including his manager of nearly 50 years, Erv Woolsey, his road manager Tom Foote, and his longtime fiddle player Gene Elders, all of whom passed away earlier this year.
The night featured a stellar lineup of tribute performances. Lainey Wilson kicked off with “Amarillo By Morning,” followed by Jamey Johnson’s rendition of “Give It Away.” Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum sang “Troubadour,” Strait sang “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame” with Chris Stapleton, ending with a toast on stage.
Throughout a career lasting more than forty years, Strait has attained unparalleled success, which comprises 30 platinum or multi-platinum records, 60 No. 1 singles, and the record for the biggest ticketed concert in U.S. history, attracting over 110,000 fans in 2024. Earlier this year, he released his 31st studio album titled Cowboys and Dreamers.
Strait has received numerous accolades, with 17 CMA victories and 83 nominations, making him the artist with the most nominations in the history of the awards. According to CMA CEO Sarah Trahern, there are few artists who embody Texas and Country music as genuinely as George Strait. He serves as an inspiration and icon to many of the great new artists we know today.”
This honor cements Strait’s legacy as a trailblazer and cherished figure in country music history
