CMA reveals 2017 International Awards recipients

The Shires: accepting the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award during CMA Songwriters Series. Photo: Amy Westney/CMA

The Country Music Association recognises those who have contributed most to the development of the genre outside the United States

After a whirlwind month of international country music celebrations across Europe and Australia, the Country Music Association (CMA) has revealed the 2017 International Awards recipients. The announcement follows several weeks of festivals and other country music events in three different countries – first with the C2C Festival in London, Dublin, and Glasgow; and more recently with the CMC Music Awards and CMC Rocks QLD Festival in Australia.

During the C2C Festival, BBC Radio 2’s Bob Harris received the International Country Broadcaster Award in recognition of the 40-year-old industry veteran’s contribution to the development of country music outside the United States. Similarly, the Chairman of the CMA Australian Advisory Group and one of Australia’s leading promoters, Rob Potts, received the Jo Walker-Meador International Award for supporting country music’s marketing development in territories outside the US. Little Big Town presented Potts his trophy backstage at the CMC Rocks QLD Festival.

Comprised of Brits Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes, The Shires are among the UK’s most successful homegrown country acts. This led to the duo being awarded the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award for furthering the popularity of country music and bringing attention to the format in their foreign-based territory.

Formerly the International Touring Artist Award, the CMA International Artist Achievement Award recognises outstanding achievement by a US-based artist who contributes to the awareness and development of country music outside the United States. This year’s recipient was American Idol-winning singer, songwriter and actress Carrie Underwood, who was presented with her trophy backstage at the Grand Ole Opry while celebrating her 100th performance.

UK publicist Richard Wootton has received the Wesley Rose International Media Achievement Award, recognising outstanding achievements in the media which contribute to the development of country music outside the US. As a member of the CMA UK Advisory Group, Wootton received his award from rock band Bush during the group’s London meeting.

CMA International Awards are voted on by CMA International Membership as well as a panel of domestic US-based industry. For more information about the association, visit: cmaworld.com

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