The 2024 CMA Awards’ First-Round Voting Opens

Updated: Aug 3

Introduction

The 2024 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards season is officially underway as first-round voting opens, marking the beginning of the journey to one of the most prestigious nights in country music. Industry professionals and fans alike are buzzing with anticipation, eager to see which artists, songs, and albums will be recognized this year.

The Voting Process

The CMA Awards voting process is a multi-step affair designed to ensure that the winners represent the best of the best in country music. The first-round ballot, now open, allows eligible CMA members to vote for their top choices in various categories, including Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year, and New Artist of the Year. This round is crucial as it determines the nominees who will move on to the final ballot.

Early Contenders

As the first-round voting commences, several artists are already generating significant buzz. Reigning Entertainer of the Year, Luke Combs, is expected to be a strong contender once again, thanks to his continued chart-topping success and sold-out tours. Morgan Wallen, despite past controversies, has also maintained a solid presence in the industry with his latest releases, making him a likely nominee in multiple categories.

Female artists are set to make a substantial impact this year. Kacey Musgraves, who has consistently pushed the boundaries of country music with her innovative sound and poignant lyrics, is anticipated to secure nominations in several key categories. Carly Pearce, following a year of critical acclaim and commercial success, is another artist to watch.

Album of the Year and Song of the Year

The Album of the Year category is expected to be highly competitive, with several standout projects vying for a nomination. Zach Bryan’s self-titled album, which blends traditional country with modern influences, has received widespread praise and could be a frontrunner. Meanwhile, Lainey Wilson’s "Bell Bottom Country," an album that has resonated with both critics and fans, is also in strong contention.

For Song of the Year, tracks like Chris Stapleton's "Starting Over" and Jelly Roll's "Need a Favor" are anticipated to be major players. Both songs have dominated the airwaves and captured the hearts of listeners, making them strong contenders for this coveted award.

New Artist of the Year

The New Artist of the Year category always brings excitement as it highlights emerging talents who are shaping the future of country music. Hardy, known for his unique blend of country and rock, has had a breakout year and is a strong candidate. Additionally, Megan Moroney and Bailey Zimmerman, who have both made significant strides with their debut releases, are expected to be in the running.

Looking Ahead

As first-round voting progresses, the excitement surrounding the 2024 CMA Awards continues to build. Fans and industry insiders alike are speculating about potential nominees and winners, eagerly awaiting the announcement of the official nominations.

The CMA Awards have always been a celebration of the best in country music, honoring artists who have made significant contributions to the genre. This year promises to be no different, with a host of talented musicians competing for the top honors. As the journey to the awards night unfolds, one thing is certain: the 2024 CMA Awards will be an unforgettable evening, celebrating the incredible talent and achievements within the country music industry.