Anticipating the 2023 CMA Awards: Country Music's Biggest Night

The Country Music Association Awards of 2023

The Country Music Association (CMA) Awards are considered one of country music's biggest nights of the year. The 2023 CMA Awards promise to be an exciting and memorable event, showcasing the industry's top performers and highlighting the most impactful music of the past year. Let's take a look at what we can expect for the 2023 CMA Awards.

The Nominees

Although the official nominees have not yet been announced, we can anticipate seeing many of today's hottest stars up for CMA Awards in 2023. For the coveted Entertainer of the Year category, leading contenders likely include acts like Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, and Morgan Wallen — all of whom have dominated country music over the past couple years. We'll also probably see nominations for breakthrough artists like Lainey Wilson and HARDY, who earned their first ever CMA wins in 2022.

The Performances

One of the most exciting parts of the CMA Awards is always the live performances. In 2023, we can count on spectacle, surprise collaborations, and lots of energy. With any luck, rumored touring plans could mean we’ll get to see megastars like Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney, and Luke Bryan take the CMA stage. Recent years have also featured show-stopping turns from pop, R&B, and rock artists; we’ll have to wait and see if 2023 brings fresh genre-blending surprises.

The Broadcast

The 2023 CMA Awards will air live on ABC on Wednesday, November 8th at 8/7c. Expect hours of star-studded entertainment, hosted once again by TV favorite Luke Bryan alongside NFL legend Peyton Manning. Last year's show drew approximately 6.34 million viewers — up slightly from 2020 and 2021. With today’s country stars reaching massive popularity, 2023 could bring even bigger ratings success.

Country Music in 2023

The CMA Awards celebrate excellence across recordings, radio success, touring accomplishments, and more from the previous year. So what trends can we predict for country music in 2023 that are likely to be recognized at this year's show?

Continued Crossover with Pop Music

Over the past decade we've watched contemporary country open itself up to pop sounds and collaborations; in 2023 that crossover momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Last year saw major pop/country duets like Dolly Parton and Kelly Clarkson as well as Kelsea Ballerini and the Jonas Brothers. With new headline-grabbing releases already out from Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood in early 2023, genre-lines will likely continue to successfully blur all year.

Raising New Stars

Country music continues to be a genre that creates breakout stars better than most. In 2023 industry pros and fans alike will be closely watching which new artists step from the shadows into the spotlight as the next generation of country headliners. Names like Jelly Roll, Bailey Zimmerman, and Parker McCollum dominated rising artist categories at 2022 award shows; we'll see who earns their place in 2023.

Touring and Live Performance Comeback

The past few years challenged the live touring landscape across music. But 2023 may be country's biggest chance yet to return to full strength with mega tours, festivals and extended residencies in the works. Powerhouse acts like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, and Kenny Chesney are all expected back on the road this next year, much to fans' anticipation.

The 2023 CMA Awards Show

When all these 2023 trends culminate for country's biggest party of the year, it promises to make for can’t-miss entertainment. As the CMA Awards track country music's Eclectic evolution in real time, longtime fans and newcomers alike are sure to find acts that speak to their tastes when tuning in November 8th. With returning favorites and fresh faces coming together, Music City’s finest will bring their 2023 A-game.

So let the countdown begin! Mark those calendars and get ready, because the CMA Awards will be here before we know it, capping off what's likely to be a standout year for country. We can’t wait to cheer on our favorite stars and get a sneak preview into the bright future of country to come.

FAQs

Who are the hosts of the 2023 CMA Awards?

The 2023 CMA Awards will be hosted by country singer Luke Bryan and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning.

What date and time are the 2023 CMA Awards?

The 2023 CMA Awards will air live on ABC on Wednesday, November 8th at 8/7c.

How can I watch the 2023 CMA Awards?

You can watch the 2023 CMA Awards by tuning in to ABC on November 8th at 8pm EST. The show can also be viewed the next day on demand and on ABC.com.

Who are the top nominees predicted for 2023?

Though official nominees have not been announced yet, top predicted contenders include Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson and HARDY based on recent success.