Introduction
George Strait Receives 2024 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award
At the 58th Annual CMA Awards held on November 20, 2024, George Strait was honored with the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. This accolade recognizes artists who have made significant contributions to the country music genre through their enduring impact, both nationally and internationally.
Strait’s illustrious career spans over four decades, during which he has achieved remarkable milestones, including 60 No. 1 singles and 33 Platinum or multi-Platinum albums. He is the only artist in history to have a Top 10 hit every year for more than three decades, with over 70 million albums sold and more than 60 major industry awards to his name .
The award presentation featured a star-studded tribute performance by Lainey Wilson, Jamey Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Parker McCollum, and Chris Stapleton, who performed some of Strait’s iconic hits, including “Troubadour,” “Amarillo By Morning,” “Give It Away,” and “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame” .
Following the tribute, Chris Stapleton presented Strait with the award. In his acceptance speech, Strait expressed gratitude to the CMAs and acknowledged the artists who performed his songs. He also thanked his wife, Norma, for her unwavering support over nearly 53 years of marriage, and honored the memory of his late manager Erv Woolsey, road manager Tom Foote, and fiddle player Gene Elders .
This recognition further solidifies George Strait’s legacy as a cornerstone of country music, celebrating his unparalleled contributions and enduring influence on the genre.