Ashley McBryde, the Grammy-winning nominee for the 2024 Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year, is preparing for an emotionally charged performance of Kris Kristofferson’s classic “Help Me Make It Through The Night” at the upcoming CMA Awards. With tears in her eyes, McBryde expressed the significance of this song to her, stating that she has been singing it since her childhood, ensuring her familiarity with every note and lyric.
The song, originally released in 1970, has been covered by numerous artists including Sammi Smith, Willie Nelson, Joe Simon, and Gladys Knight and The Pips, all contributing to its enduring legacy. McBryde emphasized the importance of honoring the moment and the song itself.
Reflecting on a memorable meeting with Kristofferson, facilitated by fellow artist Eric Church at BMI’s Songwriter’s Festival in Maui, McBryde shared how emotional the encounter was for her. She revealed that both she and her father hold Kristofferson in high regard as their favorite songwriter. The experience left her in tears, but once they met, it turned into a wonderful moment for the artist.
In addition to her performance tribute, McBryde’s latest single, “Ain’t Enough Cowboy Songs,” is set to launch on December 6. Co-written with Chris Harris and Patrick Savage, the song echoes her commitment to the timeless values of hard work, resilience, and kindness—principles she feels are diminishing in the current music industry landscape. She expressed a longing for the authenticity that cowboys, and their stories, provide in music and life.
This performance and new song by McBryde highlight her deep respect for the roots of country music while also addressing the challenges of modern times. Her advocacy for genuine values comes as a refreshing reminder of the importance of tradition in today’s rapidly changing world.
In the broader context, McBryde’s focus on perseverance and connection with her musical roots reinforces a message of hope and continuity in the realm of country music.