Lainey Wilson’s Big Wins at the CA Awards 2023
In a star-studded evening in Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, the 2023 CA Awards celebrated the brightest stars of the country music scene. Among the notable winners was Lainey Wilson, who claimed the top honor of “Entertainer of the Year” in just her second year of being nominated. This rising star’s remarkable achievements, including several other significant awards, set the stage for a memorable evening.
Lainey Wilson’s Remarkable Sweep
Lainey Wilson’s meteoric rise in the world of country music reached its peak at the CA Awards 2023. In only her second year of being nominated and her first year earning a nod for the most prestigious accolade, “Entertainer of the Year,” she made history by securing the top prize. This accomplishment was just the beginning of her night of triumph, as she also claimed the titles of “Album of the Year,” “Female Vocalist of the Year,” “Music Video of the Year,” and “Music Event of the Year” (with Hardy).
Luke Combs’ Tribute to Tracy Chapman
The night opened with the soulful sound of Luke Combs, who paid tribute to the legendary Tracy Chapman by performing a cover of her hit song, “Fast Car.” This performance earned him the first two on-air awards of the evening, winning “Single of the Year” and “Song of the Year” for his rendition of this timeless classic. Although Chapman could not attend the ceremony, her presence was felt as Combs accepted the awards on her behalf. Combs expressed his gratitude to Chapman, acknowledging her song as “one of the greatest songs of all time” and the first favorite song he ever had.
A New Face in the Spotlight
In a highly competitive category, Jelly Roll was honored as the “New Artist of the Year.” In his acceptance speech, he praised his fellow nominee, Zach Bryan, who had achieved commercial success in the category, stating, “Zach Bryan, I think you are one of the hottest things on earth, not just in country music.” Jelly Roll’s inspirational speech emphasized the importance of looking ahead, regardless of one’s age or career stage, and encouraged everyone to embrace the present moment.
Chris Stapleton’s Ongoing Success
Chris Stapleton continued his dominance as a male vocalist in the country music industry by winning the title of “Male Vocalist of the Year” for the seventh time. He humbly expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the crucial role his wife, Morgane Stapleton, played in his success. Stapleton also paid tribute to two friends who had passed away during the year, including his former partner in the Steel Drivers, Mike Henderson, who had mentored him in the art of songwriting.
Honoring the Best Duos and Groups
Brothers Osborne received their sixth “Vocal Duo of the Year” award, with singer T.J. Osborne humorously expressing their surprise at the win. Meanwhile, Old Dominion maintained their grip on the “Group of the Year” award, clinching it for the sixth consecutive year.
Show-Stopping Performances
The CA Awards 2023 featured an array of captivating performances that kept the audience on their feet. Jelly Roll, the “New Artist of the Year,” kicked off the show with an unexpected and electrifying performance, joined by the iconic Wynonna Judd. Together, they delivered a gospel-infused rendition of “Need a Favor.” Another unannounced performance was the collaboration between Morgan Wallen and Eric Church as they recreated their hit duet, “Man Made a Bar,” from Wallen’s acclaimed album, “One Thing at a Time.” Both Wallen and Jelly Roll graced the stage multiple times during the three-hour telecast, with Wallen performing a duet of The Judds’ classic, “Love Can Build a Bridge,” with K. Michelle.
Leading Nominations and Outstanding Performances
Lainey Wilson led the pack with a total of nine nominations, setting the stage for her impressive wins. Jelly Roll followed closely with five nominations, while Luke Combs and Hardy each secured four nominations. The evening was filled with standout performances, including a medley of country classics featuring Post Malone and Morgan Wallen. Additionally, the late Jimmy Buffett was honored with an all-star tribute, featuring performances by Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Zac Brown, and longtime Buffett band member Mac McAnally.
Complete List of Winners
- Entertainer of the Year: Lainey Wilson
- Single of the Year: “Fast Car” – Luke Combs
- Song of the Year: “Fast Car” – Songwriter: Tracy Chapman
- Female Vocalist of the Year: Lainey Wilson
- Male Vocalist of the Year: Chris Stapleton
- Vocal Duo of the Year: Brothers Osborne
- Vocal Group of the Year: Old Dominion
- New Artist of the Year: Jelly Roll
- Album of the Year: “Bell Bottom Country” – Lainey Wilson
- Musical Event of the Year: “Save Me” – Jelly Roll (with Lainey Wilson)
- Musician of the Year: Jenee Fleenor
- Music Video of the Year: “Need A Favor” – Jelly Roll
- “She Had Me At Heads Carolina (Remix)” – Cole Swindell & Jo Dee Messina
- “Thank God” – Kane Brown (with Katelyn Brown)
- “Wait in the Truck” – Hardy (feat. Lainey Wilson)
- “We Don’t Fight Anymore” – Carly Pearce (featuring Chris Stapleton)
The CA Awards 2023: A Night to Remember
The CA Awards 2023 was a memorable night for country music enthusiasts. With Lainey Wilson’s remarkable sweep, Luke Combs’ tribute to Tracy Chapman, and outstanding performances by some of the industry’s biggest stars, it was a celebration of talent, dedication, and the enduring power of country music. The event showcased the past, present, and future of the genre, underscoring its timeless appeal and the promising talents that continue to shine.
