The second annual People’s Choice Country Awards took place at the iconic Grand Ole Opry last night, bringing together the country music community to honor the genre’s most celebrated figures: the fans.
The event kicked off with host Shania Twain descending from the rafters on a pink heart to the tune of “Man! I Feel Like A Woman,” energizing the audience of fans and fellow country stars. As Twain landed, Kane Brown launched the first performance of the night with his high-energy single “Fiddle In The Band.” After Twain returned to the stage for a few introductory comments, it was time for the evening’s first award.
Nashville’s own comedian Nate Bargatze presented the New Artist Of 2024 award to Shaboozey, who expressed his amazement at accepting the honor on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
Lady A followed with an exciting performance of “Stop Dragging My Heart Around,” a collaboration for the album Petty Country: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty. Twain returned, dressed in her signature black, to introduce Ashley Cooke and WWE champion Cody Rhodes for the Group/Duo of 2024 award.
Dan + Shay, upon receiving their award, shared their gratitude, stating it had been the best year of their careers, highlighting their experiences with fans on the road. Following them, Keith Urban performed his current single “Messed Up As Me,” showcasing his guitar skills and vocals before Carly Pearce presented the Crossover Song of 2024 award, which went to “Lonely Road” by MGK and Jelly Roll. As Jelly Roll was on tour, MGK accepted the award, thanking the John Denver estate for their support.
Parker McCollum took to the stage to present the prestigious Country Icon Award to Miranda Lambert. He praised her remarkable talent, influence, and generosity, while a video montage highlighted her career. Lambert then performed “Kerosene” and “Dammit Randy,” affirming her status as an icon. In her acceptance speech, she acknowledged the years filled with memories thanks to her fans.
Kelsea Ballerini performed her latest song “Two Things,” transitioning from a sunflower field set to a city backdrop. Twain later presented the Female Song of 2024 award to Dasha for “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’),” acknowledging the warm welcome she received within the country music community. The War And Treaty then delivered a powerful performance of “Can I Get An Amen,” complete with a choir, earning them a standing ovation.
Bailey Zimmerman celebrated Kane Brown as this year’s Country Champion Award recipient, highlighting his selfless contributions. In his acceptance speech, Brown encouraged anyone with a dream to pursue their goals and help others in need.
Brad Paisley debuted his new song “Truck Still Works,” incorporating his hit “Mud On The Tires” during a lively performance that showcased his acoustic and electric guitar skills. McCollum returned to the stage to play his single “What Kinda Man,” honoring the classic country sound as he stood in the iconic Opry circle.
Shaboozey and Dasha presented the final award of the evening, the Group/Duo Song of 2024, which went to Old Dominion for “Different About You.” The group expressed their gratitude to fans for voting for a deep cut from their album.
As the evening drew to a close, MGK took the stage for a highly anticipated performance designed to resemble a country road. He began with John Denver’s “Take Me Home” and transitioned to his award-winning song “Lonely Road,” before closing the night alongside Shania Twain.