When CMT’s annual Artists of the Year special airs in October it will look a whole lot different than it ever has before. That’s because this year CMT is exclusively honoring women in country music.
The 2018 celebration will honor Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman and Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott.
“We’re evolving the special to reflect what’s happening right now in culture and in the lives of our fans,” said Leslie Fram, Senior Vice President of Music & Talent, CMT. “In this monumental year for women, dedicating one of the biggest nights in the genre to applaud female country artists not only solidifies our commitment, but we hope will spark a much-needed change in the industry.”
As in previous years, the special with feature surprise musical pairings and guests–all to be announced at a later date.
CMT is doubling down on their commitment to women by leading into the telecast with a day-long “Women of Country” takeover across all of its platforms. It’s a move that expands the network’s “Next Women of Country” campaign, established in 2013. (Morris and Ballerini are both alums.)
Previous Artist of the Year honorees include Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, Shania Twain, Taylor Swift, Luke Bryan and more.
The 90-minute event will air Wednesday, October 17 at 9 p.m. EST on CMT.
