Riley Green Pays Tribute To Sammy Kershaw Following CMA Awards Controversy
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CMA Awards Set To Recognize Some Of Country Music’s Most Iconic Artists
The 60th Annual CMA Awards is set to take place on November 18, 2026, at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The ceremony will celebrate some of country music’s biggest accomplishments while also recognizing the artists who have helped shape the genre throughout the years.
This year, the CMA is paying tribute to country music from the 1990s. CEO Sarah Trahern previously revealed that the decade would be incorporated into the show through throwback-inspired set designs and performances.
But despite the planned celebration of the era, one of its familiar voices is now speaking out about being left out of the festivities.
On Thursday, November 6, iconic country singer Sammy Kershaw shared a statement on social media revealing that his request to attend the awards and walk the red carpet with his wife had been rejected.
The singer said he was looking forward to being part of the event, especially since his schedule rarely allows him to attend industry gatherings. He had already made arrangements to attend, including changing his schedule and purchasing plane tickets and hotel accommodations.
However, after months of waiting for an answer, Kershaw said he was ultimately informed that he would not be permitted to walk the red carpet.
“I love country music, but never in a million years would I think that a successful country music entertainer (and I’m not the only one) would not be able to walk the red carpet. It’s extremely hurtful, embarrassing and very disappointing,” Kershaw wrote.
Riley Green Defends Sammy Kershaw Following CMA Awards Show Controversy
Many country stars came to Kershaw’s defense over the ordeal, as well as many fans.
Riley Green, who commented on Kershaw’s original post, took to his Instagram stories to show his support for the country singer.
Playing from his balcony in Maui, Hawaii, Green played an acoustic version of Kershaw’s 1991 hit, “Yard Sale.” The two performed the song during Green’s 2022 “We Out Here Tour.”
“felt like pickin a little @sammykershaw this evening,” Green wrote.
It’s apparent many artists are standing by Kershaw and recognize his legacy in country music.
The Country Music Association has not yet publicly responded to Kershaw’s remarks.
