NashVegas Stripped - CMA's "Alright"

We have another new column for you on MCMB. Instead of "Folked-Up Friday", we now have Martin Baggs writing a new column called "NashVegas Stripped". This column will feature all the dirty details into the secret lives of Nashville musicians. Check back each week to see what's next...

Written by: Martin Baggs

The Sommet center and downtown Nashville was bursting at its seams last night as country music’s biggest night settled in for the CMA’s hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. I must admit I watched it in the front of my very large HDTV and with the convenience of fast-forwarding the commercials (I started a ½ hour late on purpose). It was an awards show and it lasted forever, but they always do.

I like most viewers could spend hours blogging about how we didn’t like this or that, or didn’t agree with award choices etc., but I’m sure you’ve already checked your favorite gossip sites for that information. Taylor Swift brought home the big award of "Entertainer of the Year", and became the youngest person to ever do so, and also the first women in a long ass time - I was beginning to think the only person who voted was Kenny Chesney’s booking agent. Though not a huge TS fan, I must admit that she probably did deserve the award, so my hats off to her.

Darius Rucker brought home emerging artist and let me just say FINALLY; Nashville has some steeze! He sang one of three number one songs, “Alright,” and spent half of the song in the stands singing to the fans. He has soul and rhythm and it’s a nice change. He had my vote and I hope we see more of him in 2010.

Jamey Johnson took home “Song of the Year” and it was nice to see a break in the Nashville mold. All in all it was a big year for Lady Antebellum and Taylor Swift with the old school big hitters sitting back and watching. I think it was a pleasant shift in power. As a side note I must say I find it ironic that the Zac Brown Band did "Devil Went Down to Georgia" in light of a recent post of mine. Call Ryan Shupe and get some pointers Zac, or just pick another tune.

· Male Vocalist of the Year: Brad Paisley

· Single of the Year: "I Run to You," Lady Antebellum

· Album of the Year: Fearless, Taylor Swift

· Female Vocalist of the Year: Taylor Swift

· Song of the Year: "In Color," Jamey Johnson (w/ cowriters Lee Thomas Miller and James Otto)

· Music Video of the Year: "Love Story," Taylor Swift

· Best New Artist of the Year: Darius Rucker

· Musician of the Year: Mac McAnally

· Event of the Year: "Start a Band," Brad Paisley and Keith Urban

· Vocal Group of the Year: Lady Antebellum

· Vocal Duo of the Year: Sugarland