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90s Country Star Denied CMA Awards Red Carpet Access as Ceremony Prepares To Celebrate the Decade
Sammy Kershaw says the Country Music Association denied his request to walk the CMA Awards red carpet with his wife, Mendy. He shared his disappointment on Instagram, saying he was sad to miss a chance to attend one of country music’s biggest events and celebrate his career.
Kershaw cited more than 50 years in music, millions of records and singles sold or streamed, over two dozen Billboard country chart hits, a CMA Horizon Award nomination and lifetime CMA membership dating to 1992. He also noted that he had previously attended the red carpet and performed at CMA Fest. The ceremony was scheduled for 18 November at 8pm Eastern on ABC and Disney+.
In short
- Sammy Kershaw says the CMA denied his red carpet request.
- He hoped to attend with his wife, Mendy.
- He cited over 50 years in country music and more than two dozen chart hits.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The CMA may reasonably reserve red-carpet access for invited guests, performers and people with a clear role in the ceremony, especially when space and broadcast time are limited. A past nomination, lifetime membership and long career do not necessarily guarantee access, and consistent criteria can help organisers manage the event fairly.
The case against
Kershaw’s record gives him a strong case for inclusion at a ceremony celebrating country music from the 1990s: he had chart success, a CMA nomination, lifetime membership and prior ties to CMA events. Allowing him to attend with his wife could recognise his contribution and make the celebration feel more representative of the artists who helped shape that era.