Kelsea Ballerini is set to host the 2024 CMT Awards, which is being held live from Austin’s Moody Center. This will be the fourth time the 30-year-old singer will host the awards show, and she will also be performing one of her biggest hits, although the performance will be pre-recorded. Ballerini mentioned during an Instagram Q&A that she will pre-tape her performance ahead of the show to accommodate her hosting duties, which she described as a fun version of running around like a headless chicken. The rest of the show will be live, adding to the excitement of the event.
In a statement released in February, Ballerini expressed her excitement about returning to host the CMT Music Awards and stated that hosting an event that celebrates the music loved by fans is an honor for her. This year, Ballerini is nominated for two awards, Video of the Year and CMT Performance of the Year, for her song “If You Go Down (I’m Going Down Too).” This recognition adds another layer of excitement for Ballerini as she prepares to take on hosting duties at the prestigious awards show.
At the previous year’s ceremony, Ballerini performed her song “If You Go Down (I’m Going Down Too)” alongside a group of drag queens. This performance received praise from GLAAD, a nonprofit organization advocating for LGBTQ rights, as Ballerini displayed bold allyship by featuring talented drag artists on stage. In a statement, Anthony Allen Ramos, the Vice President of Communications & Talent for GLAAD, commended Ballerini for promoting inclusivity and self-expression through her performance, especially in the face of legislation in states like Texas and Tennessee that aimed to restrict such performances.
Ramos highlighted the importance of country music stars using their platforms to stand with the LGBTQ community and create a more welcoming industry for LGBTQ fans and talent. He emphasized the impact of Ballerini’s performance at the CMT Music Awards in challenging misconceptions about drag and reinforcing its status as an art form. Ramos called on other country music stars, concerts, and events to follow CMT’s example of inclusion and embrace diversity within the industry to promote a more accepting and supportive environment for all.
Ballerini’s involvement in the CMT Music Awards as both a host and performer showcases her commitment to celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity in the country music industry. Her decision to include drag artists in her performance not only entertained audiences but also sent a powerful message of allyship and support for the LGBTQ community. By using her platform to amplify marginalized voices and champion equality, Ballerini is setting an example for other artists and events in the industry to follow suit and create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all fans and talent.
As Ballerini prepares to take the stage at the 2024 CMT Awards, fans can expect a night filled with excitement, music, and celebration of the country music they love. With her hosting duties and potential award wins, Ballerini continues to make a positive impact on the industry by promoting diversity, inclusion, and allyship. The recognition and praise she has received for her performances and advocacy efforts reflect the evolving landscape of country music as it becomes a more explicitly welcoming and inclusive space for all artists, fans, and communities.
