Ashley McBryde, a Grammy-winning nominee for the 2024 Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year, expressed deep emotions as she prepared to perform Kris Kristofferson’s classic “Help Me Make It Through The Night” at the CMA Awards. The poignant moment was a testament to her lifelong connection with the song, which she has been singing since childhood. McBryde shared her commitment to honoring both the moment and the powerful song, which has been covered by several renowned artists, including Sammi Smith and Willie Nelson.
Reflecting on her personal connection to Kristofferson, McBryde recollected their meeting at BMI’s Songwriter’s Festival in Maui, facilitated by Eric Church and his wife, Katherine. She was overwhelmed with emotion upon the encounter, as Kristofferson was not only a significant influence on her but also a shared favorite of her and her father.
Additionally, McBryde’s upcoming single, “Ain’t Enough Cowboy Songs,” set for release on December 6, speaks to the artist’s pursuit of timeless values in an evolving industry. Co-written with Chris Harris and Patrick Savage, the song captures the sense that something has been lost in recent years and emphasizes the importance of hard work, resilience, and kindness — traits embodied by the cowboys she admired growing up. McBryde articulates the notion that while people may search for fulfillment, nothing can truly replace the authentic values and experiences that shaped them.
With McBryde’s heartfelt performances and her continued dedication to country music’s core values, fans can look forward to her emotional tribute to Kristofferson and her empowering new single, bringing hope and nostalgia to the genre.