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The 2024CMA Awardswere filled with memorable moments, from stunning performances to milestone wins. However, one comment during Cody Johnson’sLeatherAlbum of the Year acceptance speech stole the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
Producer Trent Willmon’s remarks, which many interpreted as a swipe at rising starShaboozey,led to online backlash and heated debates among fans.
Now, Willmon has stepped forward to clarify his intentions, shedding light on the situation while sparking a broader conversation about the evolving dynamics of country music.
In this blog, we’ll talk about Cody Johnson’s CMA-winning moment, his iconic duet with Reba McEntire, and Shaboozey’s groundbreaking nominations.
Let’s get started!
Willmon’s Words’ A Misstep or Misunderstanding?
During the celebratory speech, Willmon highlighted Cody Johnson’s decade-and-a-half of perseverance, a testament to the blood, sweat, and tears behindLeather.
Yet, his comment about “kicking Shaboozey for a lot of years” became the night’s biggest talking point. Social media quickly erupted, with fans expressing confusion over the intent behind his words.
Some interpreted the comment as dismissive of Shaboozey’s contributions, while others saw it as a clumsy attempt at humor.
For context, Shaboozey’s unique sound has gained critical acclaim and mainstream success, blending traditional country with hip-hop and R&B influences.
His hit single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” was a runaway success, redefining what a country anthem could sound like.
The buzz around Shaboozey has been hard to ignore. In just a few short years, the Virginia-bornartisthas gone from an emerging talent to a Grammy-nominated powerhouse.
His 2024 CMA nominations forSingle of the YearandNew Artist of the Yearsolidified his place in country music, despite not taking home any awards.
His collaboration withBeyoncéand Linda Martell on the track “Spaghetti” also showcased his versatility and cross-genre appeal. This track earned aGrammynomination forBest Melodic Rap Performance,proving Shaboozey’s ability to bridge gaps between country, hip-hop, and pop.
While Willmon’s comment sparked debate, Shaboozey’s lighthearted response showed his ability to rise above the fray. His tweet, “Ain’t nobody kicking me!” was praised by fans as classy and humorous, further endearing him to his growing audience.
Shaboozey at the CMA Awards Source:Instagram/shaboozey
Cody Johnson: A Traditional Torchbearer
On the other hand, Cody Johnson represents a more traditional side of country music. With hits like “’ Til You Can’t” andLeatherdominating the charts, Johnson has solidified his reputation as a modern-day cowboy with deep respect for the country’s roots.
His album of the year win at the CMAs was a testament to his commitment to authenticity and storytelling.
Willmon’s comments, in context, were meant to highlight the long road to success for Johnson, who has spent over 15 years honing his craft. Willmon clarified on Instagram, saying:
“I was overly excited and proud of Cody’s well-deserved win. It wasn’t my intention to disrespect anyone, least of all Shaboozey. He’s a phenomenal artist, and I admire his achievements.”
This incident has shone a spotlight on the tension within country music between its traditional roots and its evolving, genre-blending future. Shaboozey’s rise reflects a broader trend where artists are redefining what country music can sound like, incorporating diverse influences and modern production styles.
Meanwhile, stalwarts like Cody Johnson represent a commitment to preserving the authenticity and heritage of the genre. These differing approaches have sparked passionate debates amongfans, but they also highlight country music’s broad appeal.
Cody Johnson & Shaboozey at a Glance
Category
Cody Johnson
Shaboozey
Notable CMA Wins
Album of the Year (Leather, 2024)
N/A
Grammy Nominations (2025)
None
5 (includingBest New ArtistandSong of the Year)
Chart Success
“’Til You Can’t” peaked at #1 on Country Airplay
“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” spent 18 weeks at #1 on Billboard Hot 100
Collaborations
N/A
Beyoncé, Linda Martell (Spaghettii)
Genre Style
Neo-traditional country
Genre-blending (country, hip-hop, pop)
Fan Base
Traditionalists, rodeo and country fans
Younger, diverse, crossover audiences
This table illustrates the distinct paths of both artists, emphasizing their unique contributions to country music’s ever-evolving landscape.
FAQ section
Did Cody Johnson win a CMA in 2024?
Yes, Cody Johnson won a CMA Award in 2024. He took home the prestigiousAlbum of the Yearaward for his recordLeather. This accolade celebrated his hard work, dedication to authentic country music, and the success of an album that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike.
The win highlighted Johnson’s rise as a torchbearer for traditional country values while maintaining a modern edge.
What was Shaboozey nominated for at the CMAs?
At the 2024 CMA Awards, Shaboozey received twonominations:
New Artist of the Year
Recognizing his impactful debut in the country music scene with his unique sound blending country, hip-hop, and pop.
Single of the Yearfor“A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
This hit song not only dominated the Billboard Hot 100 chart for an impressive 18 nonconsecutive weeks at #1 but also captivated audiences with its clever lyrics and genre-bending production.
Although he did not win, these nominations solidified Shaboozey’s status as a trailblazer in the country music genre.
Who sang with Cody Johnson at the CMAs?
Cody Johnson delivered one of the evening’s standout performances at the 2024 CMA Awards, where he was joined on stage by the legendary Reba McEntire. The duo performed a heartfelt rendition of their duet“Whoever’s in New England”, originally McEntire’s 1986 classic.
Their collaboration showcased the blending of generations within country music, with Johnson’s deep, rugged voice complementing McEntire’s timeless vocal prowess. The performance earned a standing ovation, cementing it as one of the most memorable moments of the night.
Did Cody Johnson win a CMA in 2024?
Yes, Cody Johnson won a CMA Award in 2024, earning the covetedAlbum of the Yearhonor for his recordLeather. The award recognized his dedication to crafting authentic, neo-traditional country music that resonates with fans and critics alike.
Leathershowcased Johnson’s storytelling prowess, blending heartfelt lyrics with timeless melodies, and stood out among the year’s most celebrated albums.
The win marked a significant milestone in Johnson’s career, highlighting his evolution from a hard-working Texas cowboy to one of the leading voices in modern country music. This recognition solidified his status as a champion of the genre’s rich traditions.
Who sang with Cody Johnson on CMA?
Cody Johnson performed with Reba McEntire at the 2024 CMA Awards. The duo delivered a powerful rendition of McEntire’s iconic 1986 hit“Whoever’s in New England.”Their performance was a highlight of the night, blending Johnson’s rich, soulful voice with McEntire’s legendary vocal range.
The collaboration not only showcased their individual talents but also symbolized a connection between country music’s past and present, earning a standing ovation from the audience.
This memorable duet further cemented Johnson’s position as a modern torchbearer for traditional country music values while celebrating McEntire’s enduring legacy.
Fans not happy
Conclusion
The CMA Awards may have sparked controversy, but they also highlighted the diversity of voices shaping modern country music.
Cody Johnson and Shaboozey, while representing different ends of the spectrum, are united by their commitment to creating impactful music.
As the genre continues to evolve, moments like these remind fans that there’s room for both tradition and innovation in the country’s rich tapestry.
Last Updated: November 26, 2024
