Clay Walker Praises “Dear Friend” Sammy Hershaw for “Standing Up for Himself” Amid CMA Controversy

Country singer Clay Walker has backed his “dear friend” Sammy Kershaw after Kershaw said he had been denied a request to walk the red carpet at the upcoming CMA Awards. Walker praised Kershaw for standing up for himself and said established artists deserve respect, while recognising that the awards and record labels want to spotlight the artists they promote.

Walker described artists as products in the industry but said fans continue to value performers such as Kershaw, a country music trailblazer of the 1990s. The CMA said it was in touch with Kershaw’s team and wanted artists to feel welcome; Kershaw later said the organisation apologised, an apology he accepted, and that he was looking forward to attending with his wife.