Kenny Chesney & Sugarland Win In Nashville

The IBEA (International Entertainment Buyers Association) held it’s annual Honors Dinner last night in Nashville “to celebrate the live entertainment industry’s top buyers, agents, promoters, venues, festivals and artists.” The IBEA also paid tribute to the Country Music Association (CMA) for their 50th anniversary, which they are celebrating this year. The event, which was held at the Hilton Ballroom, included performances by Joe Nichols, Mindy Barnett, Crystal Gayle, and Diamond Rio. The following winners were awarded:

Large Venue Artist – Kenny Chesney

Small Venue Artist – Sugarland

Entertainment Buyer of the Year – Gil Cunningham, Neste Event Marketing

Talent Agent of the Year – Kevin Neal, Buddy Lee Attractions

Agency of the Year – Agency for the Performing Arts (APA)

Concert Promoter of the Year – (tie) AEG Live! and Red Mountain Entertainment

Venue of the Year – Sommet Center, Nashville, TN

Festival of the Year – CMA Music Festival, Nashville, TN

Humanitarian Award – Steve Moore

Lifetime Achievement Award – Loggins & Messina

Presidents Award – John Saunders

Congrats to all of the winners!