Brad Paisley Got Screwed: The CMA’s Misguided Hosting Change
Call me sexist, I don’t care. And on paper, a supposed “purist” such as myself (ha!) would much prefer Brad Paisley being swapped out for a couple of country music broads of such legendary status as Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire to host the 2019 CMA Awards. Dolly Parton is one of the greatest legends of country music living or otherwise, and perfect for hosting anything as a firebrand who’s funny as hell. Reba McEntire is a legend and Hall of Famer herself, and deserves whatever face time a country awards show will give her, especially after her latest record Stronger Than The Truth, which is one of the best traditional country records released in 2019 so far and has gone scandalously under-the-radar.
But this was a bad move to pull Brad Paisley from his hosting duties for the 2019 CMA Awards. And I don’t care if Brad Paisley is okay with it. I’m not, and neither are many others. A poll conducted by Country Living found that 88% of their readers were disappointed that Brad was axed. And it hasn’t, nor will it in any way improve the sentiment around the marginalized plight for women in country music. On the contrary, it has some critics lashing out at the CMAs for throwing symbolic pageantry at the problem as opposed to making subsnative moves to make sure women are treated equally in the country genre, while fans of Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood (who remains one of the three hosts) aren’t happy either.
I’m not even that big of a Brad Paisley fan. Yes, it’s hard to find a better Telecaster player in the top tier of the mainstream, and he had some great gems in his early material. But Brad’s later career has been quite inconsistent, and the joke songs have become tedious. He’s like your dad. You love him, but damn, sometimes you wish he would just knock it off already.
But I’ll be damned if the combination of Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood hosting the CMA Awards annually wasn’t one the the very few things to look forward to every year when November rolled around. Brad and Carrie, whatever fleeting 3-minute presentation they give to some country legend to pretend they still care about actual country music, and celebrating Sam Hunt losing another award were the only reasons to tune in to the CMA Awards. Aside from that, a rerun of Matlock is more compelling.
The chemistry of Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley is undeniable, and their hosting tenure has become borderline legendary over the last decade plus. Yes, we get it. We’re all worried about making sure women are fairly represented these days. But this feels so contrived and transparent. And that’s not just my opinion. As Brittany Hodak writing for Forbes explains, it comes across like window dressing trying to cover up a deeper problem. And even if the CMAs nominate and even award more women in 2019 simply to get the think piece writers and complainers off their back, it won’t address more fundamental problems. In fact it could hurt by helping to mask the more underlying issues.
It’s also worth pointing out that despite all of the complaints about country music’s gender inequality when it comes to awards shows, during the last awards cycle, Kacey Musgraves became only the second individual in history to win the Trifecta and Super-fecta of Album of the Year awards by Golden Hour taking the ACM, CMA, and the Grammy’s Best Country Album and Album of the Year. Strangely, Saving Country Music was one of the only outlets to report on this.
The CMAs and country music in general can’t fall into the trap of trying to kowtow the loudest, angriest voices in the room that will never be satisfied regardless of opportunities or outcomes for country women. It’s chic right now in intellectual circles to shit all over country music as sexist and racist. Some of the criticism is warranted. Some of it is rooted in classism, elitism, bigotry, and a prevailing misconceptions about the values of country music fans and its entertainers. Country music and its institutions should ensure that anyone and everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed regardless of sex, race, age, or any other factor. But it also shouldn’t overcompensate just to try to satiate Twitter bullies who never will be.
But this isn’t just about hosting duties. The CMAs also say they will be “celebrating legendary women in country music throughout the ceremony” in 2019. Now that sounds like a good idea. That’s what they should be doing every year, and if they had been, perhaps country’s women wouldn’t be in the boat they’re in. Booking the best women performers the genre has to offer regardless of age and current popularity (and ones that are actually country), allowing them to perform their most compelling songs as opposed to the trashy radio single the producers insist they perform, and giving them equal opportunities to win non gender awards is the way to sell the importance of country music women to the public.
I am all for more legends, and more women on country awards shows. Yes, please celebrate Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire on the CMAs by allowing them full performances of powerful songs that will prove to America what they’re missing. But let’s compel America to actually tune in and participate as opposed to repelling the very people you’re trying to reach with your positive female message by presenting it as a preach session on gender inequality.
And one important point here is that Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire will very probably be great. There’s also a good chance Brad Paisley’s back next year. It’s a silly move by the CMAs, but ultimately, probably not a big deal. And at this point the CMAs are not going to back down from their decision and then run the risk of being called sexist for stripping a couple of country legends of their promised hosting duties. And Reba McEntire is a great awards show host. She’s proven that with the ACM Awards the last couple of years, and when she hosted the awards from 2001 to 2012, along with other times in the 80’s and 90’s. The ACMs are Reba’s gig. We run the risk of the ACM producers not wanting to double dip by putting her behind the podium come April 2020. And then who are we going to get, Luke Bryan again?
Mainstream country music and the CMAs do many things wrong. But allowing Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood to host the CMAs over the last decade has been one of the few right things. Why fix something that’s not broken, especially when so much else about mainstream country is, including when it comes to the representation of women? Women should always have an equal opportunity to men, but if a man is the best person for the job, they should still be the one that is placed in that position. And Brad Paisley has proven he is the best person to co host the CMA Awards.
Now, quote farm away you Twitter assholes.
August 22, 2019 @ 10:11 am
He’s probably okay with it because it’s too embarrassing these days to announce most of the performers on the show.
August 22, 2019 @ 7:18 pm
What a choice! Cheap shot? How boges_everybody has to have their ass lickedked theses days! Super sensitive too i enjoy the paisley man and Carrie as co hosts!!
August 23, 2019 @ 4:34 am
Besides really who watches the CMAs or for that matter who this is. So-called country music anymore
August 23, 2019 @ 10:19 am
Country music is no longer country music. It died when all the glittering outfits disappeared.
August 24, 2019 @ 3:35 am
So first Liberals have taking over Country Music. MTV owns CMT so there you go. Second Brad Paisley is a Obama Loving liberal. This day and age your either American or your a liberal Democrat. Trying to force feed liberlism down everyones throat always works well. I’ll bet it gets the lowest ratings it’s seen this year. Most country women love their Male country artist, that’s the concerts they got to etc. Country men also listen to the male artist cause it’s what they relate to the things they sing about. Few men are gonna go to a female artist concert unless on a date and the women at the female concerts are usually single, with a group of friends or on a date. Not gonna see a group of 5 guys at a Merry Underwood concert, cause that would just be weird. All these female artist signing today are just pushing an agenda in their songs. People are tired of being told how to think. Telling them what should be right n wrong. Try to watch CMT with your grand parents and lil kids on Sunday after church and you’ll be sitting there watching women kissing, tranny’s putting on make up and men grinding on other men. Even the commercials can’t be watch with small kids anymore. Trying to watch a family movies other day and commercials were a bunch of gay men with aids taking a pill to keep them healthy so they could continue to spread aids. People can do what they want that’s fine and dandy but the rest of us who are decent humans are just turning it off and artist like Kasey and Marin Morris and others who are liberal socialist pretending to be Country will be Dixie Chickified…. Sing County, Be Country or you’ll just be turned off. Radio doesn’t play them cause they suck… The Judd’s did just fine before the daughter became a liberal Democrat. So follow her path reap those rewards….
August 24, 2019 @ 10:14 am
Couching this as a political thing is missing the more underlying point. Even some of the people calling for more gender equality in country music are disappointed with this move be cause it masks a deeper issue and it sets a bad precedent that men can’t support women if they want. You don’t get to 88% of people disagreeing with this move (according to the Country Living poll cited in the article) without crossing the political divide.
August 24, 2019 @ 10:32 am
Glad you had the guts to stand up and say what a hell of a lot of us are thinking. Amen to every word!
August 24, 2019 @ 11:06 am
“Brad Paisley is a Obama Loving liberal.”
He did push for Obama, but he was silent in 2016. That makes me think that he either a) found out it was a mistake to be vocal about politics and decided to hush in ’16 or b) he may be less a “liberal” and more of a “consider the candidates and choose the best one.” That’s what I tend to do, though one side has pushed me away in recent years.
In any event, I’m sure politics has nothing to do with Brad’s omission
August 24, 2019 @ 7:41 am
Brad’s popularity as a male country performer is down the last few years (no nominations, “hits”, etc.) and he’s not been around long enough to be an icon in the business (like Vince Gill who was a popular host past his prime “hit” years), so I wonder if that had a little something to do with his being “let go”. Regarding his gig with Carrie, it seemed like they would say (or in his case, do) anything about anyone for a laugh. I grew tired of the political jokes, regardless of which side they were remarking about. We’ll see how this new host group does it…
August 22, 2019 @ 10:27 am
Carrie Underwood has the personality of a wet dishrag. I’d rather Brad host with Dolly & Reba.
August 22, 2019 @ 11:25 am
I remember before her and mike fisher were official she was caught on the Jumbotron. She dropped to the ground out of view like she was shot. Always think back to that.
August 22, 2019 @ 11:48 am
I only showed up for her legs
August 23, 2019 @ 3:45 am
YES….. AGREE.
Brad, Dolly, and Reba, all 3 have a wonderful sense of humor. Perfect for the job.
August 23, 2019 @ 9:43 am
I completely disagree. I adore her.
August 22, 2019 @ 10:32 am
Such a wrong move! Women my ass, I am one, and I do not feel neglected by the opposite sex. I think you should keep Brad and ditch Carrie Dolly and Reba.
August 22, 2019 @ 9:21 pm
Don’t ditch Reba that’s a terrible idea! The point of the article wasn’t that Reba would do a bad job because tbh shed be great
November 6, 2019 @ 3:22 pm
Totally agree….no one wants to watch a country music show hosted by 3 women—I am a woman who clearly won’t be watching this year. Take a look at the country music line up today….it is almost an all-male line up of music that sells—-why is that?? Women buy guy music and they are the largest ticket buyers to live concerts/music.
August 22, 2019 @ 10:41 am
“… a couple of country music broads.” That’s the one I predict they’ll use. And they’ll only have to go as far as the second sentence. You’ve made it easy for them. Or was that the point?
August 22, 2019 @ 10:58 am
No point in holding back on your bait until it’s stale.
And yeah, the biters won’t take note of the “legendary status” part.
August 22, 2019 @ 10:53 am
If country radio were, you know, playing songs by women country artists, THAT would do the trick of promoting women in country. This is a cheap move. I sincerely doubt we see a huge emphasis on celebrating the up and coming women in the genre, and I love a good Loretta tribute as much as the next person, but there are some wonderful ladies playing *now* who get utterly overlooked. I feel like this solves nothing.
August 22, 2019 @ 11:13 am
Hell, Brad is the only reason to watch this show.
He is not only funny but extremely talented.
This is just sexist BS in reverse.
August 22, 2019 @ 11:21 am
Brad Paisley has been putting out bad material for years now. I’m glad they replaced him. Reba and Dolly will do fine. I think what would be great is if the CMAs decide to go full traditional on this show and book Tyler Childers, Aaron Watson, Erin Enderlin, Trisha Yearwood, The Highwomen, and let Reba perform Tammy Wynette Kind Of Pain then we would have a great show. I mean imagine if they let actual country music be played on the CMA awards.
August 22, 2019 @ 3:34 pm
I think Dolly needs to paster and Reba can be a guest singer. But! Brad and Carrie are the best team entertainer of a lifetime. What’s with you ppl…?
August 22, 2019 @ 5:53 pm
Yes, that would be great. Than you could let Donald Duck host and the ratings would still be through the roof. Actually have real Country Artists on the CMA’s!!!
August 22, 2019 @ 11:28 am
Dead on article. Complete and total window dressing. If the As really cared about promoting women, we’d see FULL performance spots for McBryde and Musgraves. Perhaps let them do one of THIER songs and let Church and Aldeen be the “featured” artist. We’d see Maddie and Tae. We’d get more than just Lambert and Underwood with a pity slot for Morris thrown in. We’d see songs and albums by women not named Musgraves and Lambert being honored.
This was a cheap move.
August 22, 2019 @ 11:57 am
Couldn’t have said it any better myself. I understand these establishments wanting to attempt to “change the conversation” by centering these shows more around females (I think back to the 2018 CMT Artists of the Year, which was actually well done), but this won’t change how program directors think and lack of females on radio. I agree that giving females like Dolly and Reba solo full-length performance slots will.
Also, to eliminate a male host to add on Dolly and Reba, as “special guest hosts” with Carrie is implying, at least to me, that you can’t have a male host to have a show that “celebrates female artists.” There are plenty of male artists doing their part to champion female artists – i.e. Church, Dierks, (I’m missing some I’m sure) and especially Paisley over the years. Not worth it to axe him and mess with a hosting dynamic that didn’t need to be fixed. I think even just keeping Paisley for this year and adding Dolly would’ve made a “statement” to potentially spark ratings (which is probably ABC’s/the CMA’s main intent anyway.) Dolly and Brad obviously have a history and their sense of humor probably would’ve worked well with Carrie, too. Plus Reba has been actively hosting the ACM’s in April, so the CMA just poached their host – (business is business but it seemed unnecessary.)
August 22, 2019 @ 12:04 pm
I’m interested to see how the CMA comes through with these female performances.
If it’s just performers like Martina McBride or Trisha Yearwood, for example, running through their biggest singles that we’ve all heard a million times, then I’m probably not going to be super impressed. Yes, it’s great to have them perform…but Martina’s most recent award show appearances (ACM’s 50th + CMA 50) she sang “Independence Day” and a was part of a tribute to Dolly. Trisha’s last CMA performance was a medley of cover songs. Both of these ladies are still recording excellent music. They’ve been frank in interviews saying that they haven’t gone anywhere…it’s just radio doesn’t play them as much. Those high-profile award shows are excellent chances for their new music to reach the masses.
I also hope the CMA incorporates newer female artists into the show, but not for the sake of just having a female onstage – I’m looking for quality. There are some great, deserving new acts out there (Runaway June, Ashley McBryde, etc) that could significantly benefit from the exposure of a solo slot. Because if you give a slot to a female that has mediocre material….there’s probably a more-talented group or male that was deserving of that space.
The ACMs hosted a special years ago that was all-female…and CMT’s Artist of the Year last year was solely comprised of females. Both were great. I’m not sure if there will be much a shock or surprise factor to the female additions to this show…I certainly hope they prove me wrong.
Looking at all the CMA Female Vocalist winners still living, you’ve got Loretta Lynn, Olivia Newton John, Dolly, Crystal Gayle, Barbara Mandrell, Janie Fricke, Reba, KT Oslin, Kathy Mattea, Tanya Tucker, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Pam Tillis, Allison Krauss, Patty Loveless, Trisha Yearwood, Martina McBride, Faith Hill, Lee Ann Womack, Gretchen Wilson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, and Miranda Lambert.
Then there’s The Judds and Dixie Chicks who are multi-CMA award winners, too.
Tanya Tucker would probably be a definite, as she’s making all the media rounds with her comeback album. Barbara Mandrell is officially retired and says she won’t make any appearances, but last night she presented an award at the ACM Honors, so there’s always hope she might at least attend.
I would LOVE to see a KT Oslin tribute. I’ve been doing some digging into her interviews from the late 80s and what a brilliant, talented, true-to-herself human she is. And she’s the first woman to ever win the CMA Song of the Year.
Would love to see performances by Kathy Mattea, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Pam Tillis, and Patty Loveless…because they accomplished so much and they deserve it. They’ve all recorded some of the best music of their career after they peaked at radio.
August 22, 2019 @ 12:06 pm
”………….especially after her latest record Stronger Than The Truth, which is one of the best traditional country records released in 2019 so far and has gone scandalously under-the-radar.”
One of my top 3 albums of the year ..GREAT songs , GREAT performances by Reba …..nothing ‘over-the-top ‘ or pandering about this album whatsoever. It oozes honesty and should be a MUST LISTEN for folks who think mainstream is playing ‘ great’ songs . And for wannabe songwriters .
”And one important point here is that Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire will very probably be great. There’s also a good chance Brad Paisley’s back next year. It’s a silly move by the CMAs, but ultimately, probably not a big deal.”
pretty much this sums up my feelings here . I’m ecstatic about seeing Dolly and Reba together ……well …I’d be ecstatic about seeing just Dolly . i don’t see much harm being done here . hell it could have been Dierks and B.S…..or Rhett and ( faceless upstart’s name here ). there’s way more to like about this than not , IMO .
did i mention how great Reba’s new record is ..????
August 23, 2019 @ 8:24 pm
You’re right about Reba’s record, Albert. A masterclass in songwriting, performance and production, particularly on some of the ballads.
August 22, 2019 @ 12:12 pm
Any individual who’s uneducated about the continuous lack of female representation in the Country genre probably saw this as, “Oh, they’re picking three strong females to host the show, they must really care about women!” When I first heard this news, I immediately thought of it is a major slap in the face to women in country music. It makes me absolutely LIVID to see the CMA put a bandaid on a grenade wound and think they’re putting their best foot forward. I love all three gals dearly, and I’m sure it’ll be a good presentation, but for them to do this when females are getting shoved to the side on a daily basis in favor of Bro Country dudes who have nice haircuts (and really nothing else to offer) is wrong. Great article, Trig.
August 22, 2019 @ 12:17 pm
If they kept Carrie on as a host, I don’t know why they couldn’t have kept Brad on as well. It may not fit with the narrative they are going for, but consistency is key as well, as long as it is good. I think that most of these award shows are trash, but I do really enjoy Brad and Carrie playing off of each other. They should at least let him have something to do- maybe some sort of “roving correspondent.”
August 22, 2019 @ 1:16 pm
Wish they could all host.
August 22, 2019 @ 1:37 pm
Just give Ashley McBryde an ENTIRE performance slot. That’s all I’m asking for.
August 22, 2019 @ 1:40 pm
Well, shoot, Trig. I hope the CMA hosting changes won’t change the liveblog you do. *That’s* the primary reason to watch any of these awards shows.
August 22, 2019 @ 1:46 pm
I almost wonder if there is more to it of Brad being left out. As good as he and Carrie are together, maybe it’s as though he’s no longer considered a draw for the show, and this is them testing the waters of co-hosts with Carrie.
Kind of how the ACM’s phased Reba out a few years back. It was her solo for awhile, then her with Blake Shelton, then Blake with Luke, then was it Luke with Dierks? Before finally bringing Reba back. Maybe next year will be Carrie and Maren Morris. Then Carrie and Chris Stapleton, etc.
It just doesn’t seem necessary to get rid of Brad in order to have a tribute to women as the theme. When they did the 50th anniversary they didn’t find it necessary to have some old vets as hosts.
August 22, 2019 @ 1:51 pm
I agree. Brad Paisley was the one shred of Country remaining for the face of Country Music.
August 22, 2019 @ 4:17 pm
you haven’t heard reba’s latest record ?
August 22, 2019 @ 4:38 pm
I have, I like it! Although every time I hear the hook on Freedom I hear “Viva Las Vegas” in my head haha
August 22, 2019 @ 1:59 pm
All issues aside…I actually think this decision is a good idea. If anything, shaking things up will probably be good for ratings. Having the three women host fits the theme, and undoubtedly we will see Brad turn up in a comedy bit. They will likely bring him back next year….though, adding a third host may because good idea to prepare for the inevitable day when Brad and/or Carrie stop hosting the show.
Another point…the CMA has a new director for the show this year. I don’t recall the name but he has directed the MTV awards. It’s gonna be interesting.
Overall, I’m looking forward to Dolly, Reba and Carrie…and seeing how they honor women in country.
August 22, 2019 @ 2:29 pm
I’m looking forward to Dolly, Reba, and Carrie too. It’s how this was done that I think irked a lot of people.
August 22, 2019 @ 2:02 pm
Your only problem with this is that they’re women. You’re not concerned about the quality of their performance, whether they’re country enough to be on that stage, whether they’re famous enough to be on that stage… no, you’re really just upset that the CMAs dared to make space for women who have earned it, fair and square.
Here’s a question: Assuming the CMAs were going to have women host the award show, what could they have done differently to satisfy you? If your answer is ‘be a man/don’t be a woman” you know you’re the problem.
August 22, 2019 @ 2:39 pm
Ridiculous. This idea that men are attempting to control country music by outright excluding women just because they hate women unilaterally is an unhinged sentiment that is hamstringing the effort to build true equality for women in country music.
If I’m angry that the CMAs made space for women, why did I make space for Reba McEntire by posting four articles about her in the last year?
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/reba-mcentire-says-next-record-will-be-the-most-country-of-her-career/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/reba-mcentires-stronger-than-the-truth-will-be-her-most-country-record/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/reba-mcentire-wants-the-music-to-get-back-to-the-real-strong-country/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/album-review-reba-mcentires-stronger-than-the-truth/
…and seven for Dolly Parton?
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/now-they-are-going-after-dolly-parton/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/dolly-parton-brandi-carlile-kacey-musgraves-see-huge-grammy-boost/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/details-of-dolly-partons-netflix-anthology-revealed/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/dolly-parton-refuses-to-be-politically-pigeonholed/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/dolly-parton-signs-big-deal-with-sony-atv/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/dolly-parton-gets-nascar-paint-job-for-upcoming-race/
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/miranda-lambert-cites-dolly-parton-as-her-country-music-icon/
August 22, 2019 @ 3:25 pm
Because you quite clearly said you were:
“Yes, we get it. We’re all worried about making sure women are fairly represented these days. But this feels so contrived and transparent.”
This has nothing to do with performance or worthiness — you acknowledge that they’re capable and deserving. Your’e upset that this feels ‘contrived.’ So my question, which you have avoided, is what do the CMAs have to do to make you feel that two women hosting is NOT contrived?
I’m glad you’ve posted articles on your website. But when the time came to support women getting one of the largest platforms in country music, you folded. Somehow, for reasons you have yet to articulate, two women with long, rich careers in country music hosting the CMAs is ‘inauthentic.’
August 22, 2019 @ 4:52 pm
I think this has to do with Mainstream Country Music completely ignoring women until they see an opportunity. An opportunity to put three big named women on a platform that the masses will see as a genuine effort to promote women in country music, when in reality it is just something for the CMA’s to be able to say “Look what we did”, and then after it is over, they will go on ignoring women and the masses will be none the wiser.
August 22, 2019 @ 4:56 pm
Obtuse.
Trig’s point is that given the state of the industry the CMAs can do little more than play their audience for fools.
But keep on believing, hold on to that feelayiyaying.
August 22, 2019 @ 5:34 pm
SavingWomen,
Read the story.
If being willing to criticize this decision by the CMA is failing to support women, then Brittany Hodak writing for Forbes also failed to support women. The people who were polled at Country Living at an 88% clip said they were against this decision aren’t supporting women. And the women who have piped up in this very comments section aren’t supporting women. What’s really going on here is we see right through this symbolic hose job by the CMA to try and satisfy the real concerns for the women of country with optical illusions and perfunctory notions of nominal consequence. I wrote this article to support the women of country, just like Brittany Hodak did. If ideologues can’t see the forest for the tress, and are unwilling to engage in nuanced and detailed discussions about these subjects, that’s not my problem. Go ahead and say I don’t support women in country, I don’t care. Because anyone who actually reads this article will find out that’s patently false.
What could have the CMAs done different? They could have left the hosts the same as some other women commenters have suggested here, and still had the presentation still emphasize the women of country. Or perhaps they could have had Dolly and Reba host together as a one-off, and say that Carrie and Brad would be back next year. As it is, it looks like Brad Paisley got edged out simply because he’s a man, which is sexism. And that decision has been very poorly received by both male and female country fans. It’s not my job to pick the hosts of the CMA Awards. But if it was, I very well might pick Reba and Dolly. But I would have done it in a way that didn’t render my effort to promote country women ineffective four months before the show even airs.
August 22, 2019 @ 8:07 pm
Sexism is a collection of a misconceptions on the basis of gender — anyone can be sexist. Parading about the gender of the article’s author, the women in this comment section, or anyone else does nothing to address whether the ideas they hold are sexist. In a delicious slice of irony, you are putting identity above ideas.
I’m well versed in the concept of tokenism. The issue here is that no one is touting having two women host the CMAs as the end of sexism is country music. This is not an optical illusion, this is not trickery, this is a small step in the right direction. Goodness knows what you’ll say if more women start getting played on country radio — probably that it’s purely gestural, that they aren’t country artists anyway, and that these country-lite pop stars are taking valuable radio play away from the women making REAL country music, etc. You say you’re for progress and then fight it every step of the way.
August 23, 2019 @ 6:09 am
SavingWomen,
Wow, you’re quite the gullible one.
The CMA LOVES you!
August 23, 2019 @ 10:03 am
After reading comments from “SavingWomen”, some women might say “Go save somebody else!”
August 24, 2019 @ 5:43 am
Yeah,real women run away from these groups. Especially when they’re wearing their Antifa outfits.
August 23, 2019 @ 4:29 pm
They have never honored women. Honoring women isn’t about hosting. It’s about giving them an equal chance and equal exposure. This is contrived and misses the point. Knocking a man off from hosting accomplishes nothing and shows that they don’t get it what needs to be changed so that honoring women isn’t a thing that needs focus.
August 22, 2019 @ 2:16 pm
Dolly and Reba are super popular with the gay community.
Probably trying to reel in the gay crowd so they can set up some big-name star’s coming out announcement.
August 23, 2019 @ 10:04 am
You just made me laugh out loud “Kenny Chesney”. Ha ha!
August 24, 2019 @ 11:26 pm
Kenny, that’s a ton of anti-LGBT bullshit, and not true.
August 22, 2019 @ 2:30 pm
Chic
August 22, 2019 @ 2:55 pm
Mart Stuart is one of the few real country guys out there. How about He and Reba.
August 22, 2019 @ 3:05 pm
I enjoy Brad and Carrie. It has been one of the consistent highlights of the CMAs over the last 10 or 11 years. They have such great chemistry and seem to truly enjoy each other. Their opening monologue is usually must watch. Also, it is a shame that Brad had to get cut. He no longer has the same impact on radio, and now this – sad to see him get publicly kicked over and over again. People seem to have forgotten how great his music was during his prime. He is a true artist. He writes, sings, and is one hell of a guitar player! I’m sure he’ll be asked to host next year, but not sure there is a logical explanation for him not hosting in 2019.
August 24, 2019 @ 11:00 am
I agree. however, i feel that brad’s music is still great though! (I’m definitely biased)
I hope we get to see him back next year with Carrie.
August 26, 2019 @ 8:27 am
George, no doubt, he still puts out quality music. I would say the consistence of the music hasn’t been the same since he released Wheelhouse. Especially, regarding his singles.
August 22, 2019 @ 3:26 pm
Way enough Reba on the ACM’s! Would have been nice to have Brad and Vince as host for a change or Brad by himself.I’m kindly tired of Carrie with all her dress changes. Seems its host Brad with Carrie pushing clothing for different stylist.
August 23, 2019 @ 10:06 am
Her dress changes don’t bother me at all. She looks gorgeous in all of them.
August 22, 2019 @ 3:46 pm
Brad paisley sucks just like all this new crap they call country music. Alan Jackson said it best, ‘They committed murder, down on music row’.
August 22, 2019 @ 4:08 pm
“Now, quote farm away you Twitter assholes.”
Okay, how’s this: “Of course: it takes at least two women to replace one man.”
August 22, 2019 @ 4:19 pm
Meanwhile:
Vince Gill – Okie – Album (12 Tracks) – Released (08/22)
Former CMA award show host Vince Gill released a new album & it’s a 100% Vince Gill album. Ballads & midtempo songs. He is not trying to sound radio-friendly or is selling out.
Miranda Lambert – “Bluebird” – Album Track – Released (08/14)
Well…uninspired b-side stuff.
Jon Pardi – “Tequila Little Time” – Album Track – Released (08/15)
Funny, laid-back…but the voice of Jon Pardi is killing every song.
It’s after 1 am here & i will listen to the new Tanya Tucker album now. Me, Tanya & a glass of Starka Russian Barrel Aged Wodka.
August 22, 2019 @ 4:56 pm
Where are you from that its 1 AM?
August 23, 2019 @ 6:27 am
If you want to win…take a Finn…but living in Germany right now.
August 22, 2019 @ 4:39 pm
Heres a thought. Watch the ratings on this, if they are fairly high then we can infer that at least commercially this was a good idea. If they are demonstrably flat, then you might conclude it wasn’t the best business plan.
Don’t forget that Music Row, is ALWAYS about the $$$$$. They don’t change their formula much unless it’s to protect that $$$$$. Despite playing twice as many men as women on the airwaves, they are still making..er…raking in $$$$$. Why oh Why people ask? Because people are supporting it, buying it, lapping it up for that matter, and spending their $$$$$ on it. Its decided by the demographic. Its simply a matter of economics and that is driven by demographics.
To change things the way we here would all like, would require Music Row to change their demographic to people like us. Problem is, they don’t see the $$$$$ we spend, because it simply doesn’t compare to the amount of $$$$$ that their current demographic spends. Thus we remain stuck in this hopeless cycle. Yes, its really that simple. My $1.98 opinion provided for all, free of charge.
August 22, 2019 @ 4:51 pm
Just heard it through the grapevine that next year Lil Nas X and Brandi Carlile are hosting.
This way all of the country demographics are covered.
I think that they are going to do a duet of Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”.
Should be amazing.
August 22, 2019 @ 5:06 pm
Why stop there, get “Jessica” Yaniv to do a Patsy Cline tribute in drag. The ad revenue will be fabulous.
August 22, 2019 @ 5:07 pm
I’ve never enjoyed Carrie and Brad as hosts. They’re corny, and whatever authentic chemistry they have seems to be wrapped in layers and layers of cellophane-like smarmy, unfunny bits and bad writing.
You can maybe, kinda see it in there somewhere. But it’s obscure.
Reba? Authentic. Dolly? Smart and clever as ever. Carrie? Entirely to precious and pleased with herself for my taste.
August 23, 2019 @ 6:45 am
Amen.
A couple of years ago (on the defunct Country Perspective) i wrote a comment about the “chemistry” of Underwood & Paisley. It was one of the reasons i stopped watching the CMAs. It was more of the same each year.
The combination of Dolly & Reba sounds to good to be true. Carrie Underwood can perform a random uptempo-tune, cry…well…look pretty with 101 background dancers & a lot of glitter or take home the EotY award (she should win). That’s enough.
August 22, 2019 @ 5:51 pm
Definitely didn’t expect to be on the same page with Trigger here but, as usual, a very well thought out position that I agree with until the outermost nuance.
First, obligatory credit to the tele slinging. Like him or not, at his best Brad Paisley’s approach to a telecaster is probably the most unique thing to happen with a guitar since the 80s shred wars. Sure, I could name a half dozen guys arguably on that level, and possibly even a little better with the tele (rip mr Gatton) but, I’ve seen improvised solo wars where brad made robben ford sound boring and slow in g major. That may not have happened with fancier chords but, over a simple progression with open string options, he’s truly ridiculous. Neither here nor there but, as someone who’s firmly on the other side of country, credit where due.
Next, Dolly sends my son free books very frequently (along with every other child in TN I believe). She’s truly a top tier human being, forget country.
Ultimately, the above statements are obligatory when you’re a tele player and a father from TN. I don’t disagree with very much of the above either and my posts, while typically written in a furious couple minutes are always way too long. Wish Brad kept the gig. However, if there’s one potential positive that MAY eventually arise from where he currently stands, maybe, just maybe, he’ll lose interest in the pursuit of tongue in cheek crossover number ones and lay down something really good here soon. Definitely wishful thinking and, frankly, I sort of respect his unapologetic decision to play the radio game with all he has. His “mission statement” has been more consistent than several guys on my end of the game and, I’m not nearly as offended by someone who concedes mass appeal is important as I am someone who denies it while playing the game covertly. Nothing wrong with treating it like a business and making some money. He’s done some admirable things in demanding his band, etc. too. Anyways, I’ll probably get caught for not supporting this enough. I definitely don’t feel nearly as strongly here as in other posts but, maybe, just maybe, he’ll either lay down something special, whether as a guitar player or a student of traditional country music, on his way towards a decadent retirement with his high school Hollywood crush wife. I’m not holding my breath but, I’m pulling for him to check that box one more time on the way out.
August 22, 2019 @ 6:01 pm
I suppose I should clarify I’d just as soon quit neglecting going to the dentist than watch the CMAs so, if you’re terribly offended by the dad jokes and enthusiastic introductions for utter garbage, you’re probably right. I haven’t paid any attention in a long time which probably makes it easier to feel like there’s still hope. Just saying, I’m pulling for him on tele talent alone.
August 22, 2019 @ 6:15 pm
Dolly and Reba will kill it. They are old school entertainers that know how to do it. Brad and Carrie are unnatural and cheesy. I haven’t watched the CMAs in years because it sucks. I’ll for sure tune in to see Reba and Dolly show the kids how its done.
August 22, 2019 @ 6:56 pm
I posted on this site some time ago that this sniveling whiny gender-complaining crap would backfire. I have no reason to change my opinion.
By the way, I love Matlock reruns.
August 22, 2019 @ 8:09 pm
Frankly I find it laughable that these three letter organizations make these less than half assed symbolic gestures about women and their role in country music when absolutely outstanding artists such as Charlie Marie are criminally under appreciated.
August 22, 2019 @ 8:18 pm
The CMAS Just Got Tired of Brad Paisley of his 🌽 Corny Jokes and I am Surprised he lasted 11 years on the CMAS His Jokes Weren’t Evan Funny and I am Not a Fan of Brad Paisley his Music is 🌽 Corny as well and too Bulky and I Like Carrie Underwood though as a Host she’s Great.
August 24, 2019 @ 11:25 am
Mike, while some of Brad’s radio hits may be on the corny side as you say, he still holds traditional values. His albums generally contain a good array of corny, meaningful, and traditional country music. I think that’s hard to find in 2019. Typically an artist might have 1 or possibly 2 of those things, but Brad never fails to continually release albums with songs featuring a variety of moods. Personally I prefer his ballads, but I’m sure the record label has a say in what they send to radio, and more often than not, they’re on the quirky/silly end of the spectrum.
I loved Brad and Carrie together; the only reason I watched the show. I’m just not a fan of much of the new music.
August 22, 2019 @ 10:03 pm
OMG!!! I love Brad and Carrie together they are so funny perfect presenters.
August 22, 2019 @ 10:24 pm
I’d like to contribute something meaningful to this topic, but after going through my country music playlist and discovering my first 100 songs features 84 male artists and 16 female artists (a third of which are duets), I guess you could say I’m part of the problem.
Anyways, I’ll watch the CMAs as I do every year – usually in just over an hour after fast forwarding through the non-country performances. I do, however, enjoy the chemistry Brad and Carrie have with one another. Dad jokes & all.
I’ll give this year’s hosts an opportunity to win me over during the monologue. After that, I’ll have a quick trigger with my remote.
August 23, 2019 @ 3:04 am
Paisley & Parton would have been an unlikely, but fun, team.
Nonetheless, the CMA awards have been off my radar since the late 90’s, once Nashville turned its back on anything closely resembling “Country” music.
And, lest we forget, if your income is predicated on your relationship to Gnashville… you do what you are told. It is extremely rare for an artist of worth and honesty to shun the Powers-that-be and still succeed.
August 23, 2019 @ 4:14 am
Sounds like the damn Democrats have taken over the CMAs.
Can’t even enjoy a good read on the toilet without seeing some gender equality/ tolerance/ victim card squabble.
Forgive me folks. My white privilege is having an outbreak.
August 23, 2019 @ 4:21 am
Couldn’t have said it better myself. The Carrie and Brad combo can’t be beat. It’s the only reason I tune in. Sorry to see this change. The reasoning is ridiculously stated.
August 23, 2019 @ 4:50 am
Haven’t you got the memo?
It is OK to screw men over if it is for equality. It is only “fair!” Because something, something happened in 1845.
August 23, 2019 @ 5:05 am
I’m a little shocked by things some people will say when given this opportunity..wow. My thoughts are simply that I look forward to the CMA Awards every year and LOVE Brad and Carrie hosting together. They are funny, yes corny, but refreshing! I love and respect Dolly and Reba and have no problem “celebrating them:, but that could be done on a separate part of the show. I will definitely miss Brad and Carrie hosting together…hated to hear the news!!!🙁🙁🙁
August 23, 2019 @ 5:25 am
I’ll show my nerd-dom here.
This is exactly like the scene in “Avengers: Endgame” where the the female Avengers get together to get the Infinity Gauntlet over to the van. That was clearly a cheap, pandering scene to show how “woke” hip they were, and this is exactly the same. It’s not meaningful, it’s a clear attempt to show “how much they care about women.”
August 23, 2019 @ 7:14 am
Yes your right i’m 68 years old and country is not country anymore. We as people has aloud this to happen,not just in county music but everything else.when you take God out of everything, what do you have left,nothing.the bible is full filling it self,but people won’t listen. We live in a corrupt world sadly that is what most people like.look at the leaders we have had in the past.Money, sex, lies,anything so they can be on top.we all have a right to our opinion, but not to the point we hurt someone else.All these singers are good I just wish I could sing.just remember when you say something bad about someone you can’t take it back.l love everyone don’t care for some of their music but again they have rights to and at the end God will judge us all.
August 23, 2019 @ 9:02 am
How sad that there is finally a change in hosts and we go into a sexism rant. I guess they need to do like public schools through the years, turn in a head count by race and sex and report on it as a basis for funding. Then we have equality, maybe. Except we are not sure any longer it seems who is in what sex role.
August 23, 2019 @ 9:10 am
After thinking more about this…Aren’t we making way too much out of the fact that Brad won’t be hosting this year? We’re not talking about a lifetime appointment…it’s only an awards show. I love Brad and Carrie, but I also love Dolly and Reba. Brad and Carrie will probably return next year. Or, if they decided to use all new hosts next year, or even go hostless, that would be OK with me. I would actually love to see Vince Gill return at some point as well. It’s all about keeping the show moving along, and fresh and entertaining for the viewers.
I think honoring women in country is a great idea, and maybe they can do other themes in future shows: groups, faith and country, eras (certain decades), or veteran artists. I’d love to see a year where all performers sing classic country hits that influenced them (rather than their current hits we’ve heard 1,000 times in the past year). I miss the CMT concerts where they did duets and classic songs. But I don’t fault the CMA for mixing things up. With Dolly and Reba on board, the viewers definitely win.
August 23, 2019 @ 9:27 am
Too much can be made of this issue for sure. I have full confidence that Carrie, Dolly, and Reba will do a great job hosting. Ultimately, the specific concern of Brad hosting or not is water under the bridge. But what has so many people hot and bothered on both sides of the aisle is that it’s symbolically all wrong. Those who are worried about the situations facing country women feel like it’s forced and a salve on a gaping wound. Those tired off all the equality arguments feel like its sexism in reverse. This is a stiuation and conflict that could have been avoid, or at the least, handled better, and hopefully the criticism will be heard by the CMA and they’ll try to make smarter decisions moving forward.
August 23, 2019 @ 10:49 am
The truth is if you are around long enough like 40 years, one thing is for certain, there will be change. We went through this after Vince Gill. Some ppl can’t handle change and it’s true the chemistry between these two has been spot on. They’ve done a superb job but there are many who believe the duo have become stale and predictable. Let’s just use that old showbiz slogan, “Always leave em wanting more!” Move on. This won’t hurt Brad or Carrie’s career.
August 23, 2019 @ 12:05 pm
I used to love Carrie but her vanity got in her way when she had an accident and OMG the world ended, she couldn’t face anyone for months without having her face half covered. Gee, she was what? normal?? We all have flaws Carrie, even you. I no longer had the respect she for her that she earned herself in country music and I will change the channel whenever she comes on….Anything with her, I’m out!!! Too damn vain for me!!! I could have seen CMA removing her but definitely not Brad, that’s sad 🙁 I won’t be watching that show and haven’t since her accident!
August 23, 2019 @ 12:25 pm
The CMA should have dumped Paisley and Underwood years ago, why they hold on to her baffles.
August 23, 2019 @ 12:39 pm
This is nothing more than the “politically correct left” stroking again !
They think they are always morally right about everything and have to make up for equalities through the years. Sad thing is many or most country music stars are with them just so they can be in the mainstream. So this time it actually bit one of them in the ass. They say the believe being morally correcteven claim they believe in Almighty God for those beliefs ! Yet God says man is the head of the house and the woman liners go nuts. God says though shall not kill and woman’s right to abortion,murder,really freak out ! God says homosexuality is an animation, and they say love is love. Well that’s not what God says ! So tell me,is God All mighty,All knowing as you claim ? And if he is Omnipresent, Omnipotent, and just all knowing, if he says something is wrong, who are YOU to argue with God ! So which is it,is God right or not ?! Keep arguing with God,I guarantee your gonna lose !!! And your not going to like the end results !
August 23, 2019 @ 2:26 pm
Homosexuality is animation?!?!?! Are you into gay cartoons, Danny?
August 23, 2019 @ 4:11 pm
I guess spell check changed the word after I typed it, I didn’t notice it had done that. My comment should have stated,God says it is an ABOMINATION
August 23, 2019 @ 4:34 pm
Yeah, but it’s 2019 and his thinking has evolved. He’s cool with it now. His only issue now is why others haven’t used the brains he gave them to get the science of it.
August 23, 2019 @ 5:06 pm
Yeah well you may want to (2 Timothy 2:15), I’ll let u look that verse up, as it something you may want to do,Study…
God is the same yesterday,today and tomorrow (Here’s 13:8). So again Study…
And please don’t use the verse next and tell me not to judge,I’ll tell you to keep reading,and again Studying !
God doesn’t change,murder was a sin yesterday,today,and tomorrow , so is adultery, homosexuality,lying,whoremongering,and a whole list of others !
God doesn’t need to evolve,he’s smarter than man,he knows all,even the very number of hairs on your head, which has a brain in it to use. Just keep denying the power of God,there’s a verse for that also…2 Times. 3:5, you might want to read that entire chapter,as well as Romans ch. 1. 😉 Again don’t just read,STUDY .. 2 TIM 2:15
August 24, 2019 @ 8:29 pm
What is your point, Danny?
August 25, 2019 @ 6:02 am
My point was simple, the move was made to.please being politically correct to make up for what they feel has been years of woman not being given opportunities.
Thats their choice, political correctness is to the ridiculous point now would be my point,and me and I would say well over half the country is sick of it !
I stand by Gods word, God does not need to evolve as 1 person said,lmao which is one of the absolutely most stupid things I’ve ever read in my life !
These TV stars,country music stars jump in line because they don’t want to be attacked by the rest, instead of standing up against certain things. Its easy to go along with the “group”, not so much when you stand up for what’s truly right in life when it comes to true biblical beliefs.
Which is what Christmas said,they hated me,they will hate you,they didn’t accept me,they won’t accept you !
So you can go along with the politically correct crowd, or you can stand up for what is biblically correct ! They all the time go along,this time it bit them.
So my point is ,STOP BEING POLITICALLY CORRECT, one shouldn’t care what others say, like you, or anyone else ! I am to please God,and God alone,not any man ! These companies, hollywood stars try to influence others and all there doing is ruining this country with there sickening morals, which if you study the bible deeply,you’d find hollywood is actually aluded to with all there sickening morals.
August 23, 2019 @ 6:01 pm
Everybody is so worried about PC these days!! Why does everyone have to be judged by something they were born as instead of every human being equal? Stop judging balance as your sex, color, etc. Look only at achievements and credentials. I’m a woman and don’t want any special treatment that I haven’t earned by hard work!!
August 23, 2019 @ 6:18 pm
The dirty little secret is that women prefer to hear male artists, and it’s always been that way. I don’t care what the “woke” female professes. Why are 90% of my CD’s by males? Cuz I like them better, overall. My hero is Merle. Sure, I think Patsy is phenomenal, too, but I’m tired of political correctness when all I care about is the music. I don’t get why women today are so insecure that they have to keep score.
August 24, 2019 @ 3:46 am
Thank you for speaking up.. you told the facts on a majority level…. Women love their men and women would just think a man with his windows down blaring Dolly Parton was quite weird. And most Men just ain’t gonna play a bunch of female songs all the time. Not today’s liberal Democrat women anyway… I turn it as soon a Kasey or Marin Morris, Lil big town come on the radio. Not gonna listen to political brainwashing when I’m out everyday workimg my ass off. I turn on the radio to feel good not be lectured… I think the majority agree ..
August 24, 2019 @ 10:12 am
I don’t know, I’ve probably been caught a couple times blasting Dolly’s version of “Muleskinner Blues” and trying to hold my breath with her on the first note as the folks beside me in traffic think I’m a fool. Sure, most men listen to men, and a lot of women listen to men as well, and that’s one of the underlying reasons for the gender imbalance in country music. But as a man, I enjoy a ton of music from women like Dolly and Reba unabashedly.
August 23, 2019 @ 8:50 pm
Whats done is done lesve it alone
August 24, 2019 @ 6:07 am
More #MeToo movement BS coupled with political correctness….. Why, as a country music fan, would I want to watch a wannabe female performer lip sync and strum (off beat) an unplugged pink guitar??…. Or some soy-boy who is “LBGTQ approved” sing “…slide your pretty little tan-legged ass on over”…. Dolly & Reba have more than paid their dues. I just hope they can get thru the script without gagging… Take a good look at who runs “country music” today….then go find and support your local and regional acts that play for a living and love of the music….whatever genre you prefer….
August 24, 2019 @ 5:02 pm
Great article. Seems too shallow to just drop him in favor of women, like “look at us, we’re doing something!”
August 24, 2019 @ 8:59 pm
“Now, quote farm away you Twitter assholes.”
Way to go, Trigger. Now the trolls will never leave you or this place alone. You’ve just turned this website into troll bait, consequences be damned.
You might as well just give up and shut this place down because you’re obviously doing more to hurt country music than to save it. For the love of all that is holy, please grow a pair and move the hell on with your life.
August 27, 2019 @ 11:24 am
I, too, was disappointed that they replaced Brad. As I female, I am so sick of the tired “not enough females” argument. It is not a good look to replace a man who has been doing his job well with 2 women simply because of the movement. Reminds me of affirmative action BS. He was doing a good job…..it runs me the wrong way. Plus, why Reba? She already hosts an awards show. The whole thing was dumb move. There are other ways to honor women in music without taking a man’s job. Stupid.
August 28, 2019 @ 5:29 am
Obviously from all of these comments the majority of people would rather say “don’t fix it if it ain’t broke”. I love Dolly & Reba but I just can’t imagine that they are going to be funnier than Brad & Carrie. They are a dynamic duo that I really look forward to watching together every year. I just don’t think you can replace their perfect timing & humor.
November 13, 2019 @ 6:53 pm
feminism and liberals are destroying everything on the planet and we’re letting them do it makes me sick seeing all the trash in EVERYTHING cmt politics tv shows schools music military religion when’s it stop when do we push them back out of the places they don’t belong?…
December 4, 2019 @ 10:12 pm
Women, really? I thought it was Trump and those stupid Republicans who are destroying ,everything, now that is trash for you. So go ahead and TRY to push us out of the places that you think we don’t belong. Women are sick of morons like you who think males are better than women, just look at the prisons and you will see it is mostly men who do terrible things, rape, murder, incest, robbing etc. Suck it up Joe Baby! We’re not taking you men’s shit anymore, and just try to grab us by the padoozie and see if you have any teeth left.
February 25, 2023 @ 10:18 pm
FU Brad Paisley! You disconnected, sell out TRAITOR to the USA. Why not sing a song about homeless vets dying and freezing their a$$es off in US? Why not sing a song about East Palestine folks breathing in dirty air and drinking toxic water or seeing wildlife and fish die in their area? Nope. Brad has shown us his true colors. PURE EVIL. He’s already taken his mark of the beast without that day even asking him to do so. Cray cray.