In the world of country music, the CMA Touring Awards ceremony is a celebration of the unsung heroes who make the magic happen. This year's event, hosted by the charismatic Keith Urban, shed light on the incredible work of Lainey Wilson's Whirlwind World Tour crew, a team predominantly made up of women.
The ceremony, presented by Strauss, recognized and honored the top touring professionals in country music, those dedicated individuals who ensure artists can perform and connect with their fans across the nation. With 20 categories spanning various roles, the awards highlighted the importance of each person's contribution to the success of a tour.
A Well-Deserved Win for Lainey Wilson's Crew
Lainey Wilson and her crew, comprising 35 women, took home the prestigious Crew of the Year award. Wilson's heartfelt acceptance speech highlighted the crew's dedication and their ability to leave a positive impression wherever they go. She expressed gratitude for their hard work and the sacrifices they make, emphasizing the importance of treating everyone with respect, from the janitor to the CEO.
Wilson's manager, Mandelyn Monchick, echoed these sentiments, praising the crew's teamwork and exceptional skills. Members of the crew also took the opportunity to express their appreciation for the recognition and the opportunity to be part of such a talented team.
What makes this win particularly fascinating is the impact it has on the industry. With a predominantly female crew, it sends a powerful message about the capabilities and strengths of women in the music business. It challenges traditional gender roles and showcases the talent and expertise that women bring to the table.
A Night of Celebration and Reflection
The ceremony, although rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances, maintained its spirit and purpose. CMA CEO Sarah Trahern emphasized the community's resilience and adaptability, highlighting the unwavering dedication of the touring professionals. The evening was a testament to the industry's ability to pivot and adapt, ensuring the show goes on.
Former CMA executive director Ed Benson shared memories of the early days of the CMA Touring Awards, providing a glimpse into the ceremony's evolution. The 20th anniversary was further celebrated with appearances by former hosts Kristian Bush, Kix Brooks, and Jon Pardi, who presented awards in several categories.
One of the most poignant moments of the night was William Dyer's speech, which brought attention to the importance of mental health within the industry. This was followed by a heartfelt performance by Charlie Worsham, honoring those who have passed away in the past year. The performance of Todd Snider's "Age Like Wine" served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact these individuals had on the industry.
Honoring a Legend: Jim Halsey
The CMA Lifetime Touring Achievement Award was presented to Jim Halsey, a veteran agent and manager with an impressive six-decade career. Halsey's work with iconic artists such as Hank Thompson, George Jones, and Tammy Wynette, among others, has helped elevate country music to a global stage. His efforts in securing prestigious venues and pioneering the first country music tour in the Soviet Union in 1976 are a testament to his vision and impact on the industry.
Duane Allen and William Lee Golden of The Oak Ridge Boys, long-time clients of Halsey, paid tribute to him during the ceremony. Halsey's absence was felt, but he accepted the award via video, watching the show from his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The respect and admiration for Halsey were evident, with Allen noting that they affectionately call him "godfather."
A Surprise for the Host: Keith Urban
As the evening came to a close, there was one more surprise in store. CMA CEO Sarah Trahern presented Keith Urban with the CMA Founding President's Award, established in 1963 and named after CMA founding president Connie B. Gay. Urban, a two-time CMA entertainer of the year winner, was recognized for his ongoing support and dedication to the CMA and the country music industry.
Urban expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the award, acknowledging the sacrifices made by road crews and the importance of having a night where everyone can come together and celebrate. His heartfelt words highlighted the impact of these awards on the industry and the community it fosters.
A Look at the Full List of Winners
The 2026 CMA Touring Awards winners list showcases the diversity of roles and the talent within the country music industry. From business managers to publicists, venue staff to tour videographers, and talent buyers to production managers, each winner played a crucial role in the success of their respective tours.
Conclusion
The CMA Touring Awards ceremony is a reminder of the collective effort required to bring country music to life. It celebrates the dedication, talent, and hard work of the touring professionals who often go unnoticed. Lainey Wilson's crew, with their well-deserved win, serves as an inspiration and a symbol of the power of teamwork and diversity in the industry. As we reflect on the impact of these awards, we are reminded of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the individuals who make our favorite artists' tours possible.
