Oh, what a night! The 2020 CMA Awards served as a major reunion for the country music community.
Taking place at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn. and hosted by Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker, the ceremony was decidedly more laidback than year's past, with the musicians sitting at tables and booths spread across the auditorium. Lights flickered from the tables as performers graced the stage, making the mood just right for country music's biggest night and giving viewers at home a reprieve from the coronavirus pandemic.
While masks weren't required in the audience, tables were spaced the recommended six feet apart and face covers were available. These precautions were a necessity, especially after multiple performers dropped out citing COVID-19 exposure and, in some cases, positive test results. Florida Georgia Line's Tyler Hubbard, Lee Brice and an unnamed member of Rascall Flats were diagnosed with the virus this week. Additionally, Lady A revealed that they had been exposed to the illness by a family member.
But it's what is going on behind the scenes that is the fun part. After spending months indoors, the artists were able to reunite and chat about everything under the sun, albeit from behind fancy handheld face coverings.
To see country music's finest in their natural environment, check out the gallery below!
There's nothing but love between these two as they prepare to walk the red carpet.
The former CMA Awards host is always red carpet ready, even when she's not.
Dressed in a floral gown, the singer puts even Mother Nature to shame with her svelte looks.
Country music's queens catch up on all that's good behind the scenes.
The country heartthrob is ready to rock the roof off of the Music City Center.
The CMA Awards doubles as a reunion for the country music stars, who have been kept apart during the coronavirus pandemic.
These two besties remain six feet apart but closer than ever.
The New Artist of the Year nominee and his fiancée hitch a ride ahead of the show.
The singer adds a pop of color to the CMA Awards red carpet.
This couple brings a country flair to the red carpet in their flashy looks.
The attendee honors late dad Joe Diffie by wearing a jacket with her father's silhouette emblazoned across the back.
Safety first! The host and her date wear their masks ahead of the show.
To see the list of nominees and winners from tonight's show, check out our list here.
This article was originally published on Wed, Nov 11, 2020, 6:25 p.m.