Ashley McBryde, the Grammy-winning nominee for the 2024 Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year, shared her emotional anticipation ahead of her performance of Kris Kristofferson’s classic “Help Me Make It Through The Night” at the CMA Awards. With tears in her eyes, she expressed her deep connection to the song, which she has been singing since childhood.
McBryde emphasized the significance of honoring both the song and its legendary songwriter, Kris Kristofferson, whose 1970 hit has been covered by numerous iconic artists including Sammi Smith and Willie Nelson. Reflecting on her encounter with Kristofferson at BMI’s Songwriter’s Festival in Maui, she recalled being overwhelmed by emotion when they met, as he was a beloved figure in her and her father’s musical journey.
As McBryde prepares for her performance, she also looks forward to the release of her upcoming single, “Ain’t Enough Cowboy Songs,” slated for December 6. This new track resonates with the legacy of Kristofferson, encapsulating her thoughts on the music industry’s evolution while emphasizing values like resilience and kindness that cowboys represent.
In her words, McBryde highlights a yearning for authenticity in the industry. “There ain’t enough of it to ever resemble the real thing,” she states, underlining a universal feeling many can relate to during these transformative times.
This emotional moment and upcoming release showcase McBryde’s commitment to both honoring the artists who came before her and staying true to her principles in her music. Fans can look forward to her heartfelt performance and the new single that promises to reinforce the values she cherishes.
In summary, McBryde’s tribute to Kristofferson and her new music reflect a deep respect for country music traditions, while also appealing to timeless virtues that continue to inspire both her and her audience. This spirit of connection and authenticity gives hope that the essence of country music will endure even amid industry changes.