CMA Awards Respond To Backlash Over Red Carpet Exclusions

Country singer Collin Raye said the Country Music Association denied his request to attend this year’s CMA Awards red carpet with his wife, Mendy. He criticised the decision as hurtful and embarrassing, arguing that established artists who have contributed to country music should be recognised.

Raye said he changed his touring schedule and booked flights and hotels after months of expecting to attend, but learned two weeks before the ceremony that he was excluded. He cited more than 50 years in music, millions of records and singles sold or streamed, over two dozen Billboard chart hits, a 1992 CMA Horizon Award nomination and lifetime membership, and performances at CMA Fest.