This year is no exception. Hardy and Lainey Wilson lead the pack with seven and six nominations respectively. While it’s unlikely they’re going to sweep, they do make a statement: We’re here.
People are also reading… Another surprise in this competition: Morgan Wallen. After his year of exile, he came back stronger than ever and landed spots in Entertainer of the Year and Male Artist. Expect him to get one – or both.• Carrie Underwood only got one nomination despite having a big tour in 2022. This could be her moment but, usually, you need a Female Artist nod to pull off something like that.
Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | Omny Studio MALE ARTIST – Thomas Rhett isn’t here but Luke Combs and Chris Stapleton have the “veteran” nominations in hand. Kane Brown, Jordan Davis and Morgan Wallen are the wild cards. And, unless voters feel they’ve got to make a safe choice, we’re going with Wallen.
SINGLE OF THE YEAR – Cody Johnson is the wild card. He has won prizes for “Til You Can’t” and should pick up something at the ACMs. He has three chances. This seems like one for “Never Wanted to Be That Girl” . That should spread the wealth. But if Johnson wins, don’t call us out. VISUAL MEDIA OF THE YEAR – Here’s where the Browns can shine. Video of the Year – as it used to be called – has often been a place for newcomers to step into the winners’ circle. “Wait in the truck” is here, too, and “What He Didn’t Do” has a shot as well. Still, “Thank God” we have a place for Kane and Katelyn.
NEW FEMALE ARTIST – Priscilla Block made an impression touring with Justin Moore; Megan Moroney won the CMT award for breakthrough female artist; Caitlyn Smith has “Tacoma” on her resume and Morgan Wade scored with “Wilder Days.” That just leaves Hailey Whitters. Who wins? Roll the dice for Morgan Wade.