Keith Urban, the renowned country music superstar with over two decades of experience as a touring musician, shares his deep appreciation for the road and the people who make it possible. For the second year in a row, Urban has been selected as the host of the Country Music Association Touring Awards, an event that recognizes the unsung heroes of the Country Music touring industry. This occasion acknowledges essential roles such as Coach/Truck Driver of the Year, Crew of the Year, Lighting Director of the Year, and many more.
As a seasoned artist who started his official touring journey as a supporting act in 2001 on Brooks & Dunn’s Neon Circus & Wild West Show, Keith Urban is intimately familiar with the tireless effort required to bring shows on the road. Reflecting on his own experiences setting up equipment and working as a lighting guy and crew member, Urban understands the dedication and hard work that keep performances running smoothly. Being entrusted with the role of host for the CMA Touring Awards for the second time, Urban expresses his gratitude, stating, “I’m honored to once again be asked to host the CMA Touring Awards and acknowledge and shower some love on all the hard workers behind the scenes that make it all happen.”
Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer, shares Keith Urban’s sentiment and emphasizes the significance of recognizing the touring community each year. Attending shows, witnessing new tour announcements, and seeing unforgettable nights captured on film serve as constant reminders of the critical role, unwavering dedication, and resilience displayed by touring professionals worldwide. Trahern eagerly anticipates the opportunity to celebrate these road warriors, demonstrating her support by expanding the award categories, including the newly introduced Crew of the Year honor. Highlighting the impact of these individuals in keeping Country Music alive globally, Trahern eagerly looks forward to the celebration on February 12.
The Evolution of the CMA Touring Awards
This year’s CMA Touring Awards includes five additional categories, bringing the total to 20. Artists such as Old Dominion, Chris Stapleton, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, and Keith Urban himself witness multiple members of their crew receiving well-deserved nominations. Voting for the awards opens on December 13 and will run until December 28. The ceremony is scheduled to take place in the heart of Country Music, Nashville, Tennessee, on February 12, 2024.
Keith Urban: Always On The Move
While preparing for his hosting duties, Keith Urban has been a constant presence in the music world. Having just completed a world tour and his own residency, The Speed of Now World Tour and Keith Urban the Las Vegas Residency respectively, Urban has spent the majority of 2022 performing in sold-out arenas worldwide. His latest album, “The Speed of Now,” received immense praise and served as the driving force behind his successful tour. The Las Vegas residency took place at the Bakkt Theater in Planet Hollywood and offered fans a unique experience. Many were delighted by surprise appearances from his wife, Nicole Kidman. The residency concluded on November 22, allowing the Australian-American singer to spend the holidays with his beloved family, including his wife and their two daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret.
The Country Music Association Touring Awards are an important platform for honoring and appreciating the unsung heroes who make Country Music thrive. From the individuals who ensure the safety of performers on the road to the talented lighting directors who create the captivating stage ambiance, every role contributes to the magic of live music. Through the expansion of award categories and the dedicated efforts of individuals like Keith Urban and Sarah Trahern, the touring community receives the recognition it truly deserves. As fans, let us remember the remarkable work happening behind the scenes and express our gratitude for the enduring commitment of those who work tirelessly to deliver memorable experiences to audiences worldwide.