The 2024 Texas Country Music Awards Nominees: Full List & Predictions
Categories: From Entertainer of the Year to Young Artist
The Texas Country Music Awards (TCMA) is just around the corner, and the excitement is building as fans eagerly await to see who will take home the top honors. This year’s nominees represent the best of Texas country, from seasoned veterans to fresh faces, and the competition is fiercer than ever. With categories that highlight everything from songwriting and performance to emerging talent, the TCMA celebrates the full spectrum of the Texas country music scene.
The flagship category, Entertainer of the Year, is packed with names that have been lighting up stages and airwaves across the state. There’s also the Song of the Year category, which honors the best-written tunes, recognizing the storytellers who capture the essence of Texas in their lyrics. Other categories include Male and Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, Band of the Year, and Young Artist of the Year, among others.
Here’s a look at some of the key categories and this year’s nominees:
Entertainer of the Year:
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- Cody Johnson
0
	
- Aaron Watson
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- Parker McCollum
0
	
- Kacey Musgraves
0
	
- Josh Abbott Band
0
1
Album of the Year:
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2Hell Paso
3 by Cody Johnson
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2The Great Divide
3 by Reckless Kelly
0
	
2Something About a Cowboy
3 by Randall King
0
	
2Heart on Fire
3 by Kasey Tyndall
0
	
2Unraveled
3 by Wade Bowen
0
1
Song of the Year:
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- Damn Strait by Scotty McCreery
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- Heart Like a Truck by Lainey Wilson
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- Wild Horses by Josh Ward
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- Next Girl by Carly Pearce
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- Beer and Texas by Curtis Grimes
0
1
Young Artist of the Year:
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- Payton Howie
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- Chris Colston
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- Kaitlin Butts
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- Brennen Leigh
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- Jade Marie Patek
0
1
Each category is stacked with incredible talent, and while some nominees are fan favorites, others are making their debut appearance at the TCMA. The diversity of this year’s lineup reflects the evolving nature of Texas country music, where traditional sounds blend seamlessly with new influences, creating a genre that is as dynamic as it is rooted in tradition.
Predictions and Fan Favorites
Now, let’s get into the fun part: predictions. While it’s always tough to call who will take home the trophy, there are a few clear frontrunners and fan favorites who have been making waves throughout the year.
In the Entertainer of the Year category, Cody Johnson seems to be the one to beat. After a stellar year with sold-out shows and the successful release of
2Hell Paso
3, Johnson’s star has never shined brighter. Known for his high-energy performances and genuine connection with fans, it’s no surprise that he’s a favorite to win. However, Parker McCollum has been gaining serious momentum, and with his crossover appeal, he could pull off an upset. The Josh Abbott Band also has a loyal fan base that can’t be ignored, making this a category to watch closely.
For Album of the Year, the competition is equally fierce.
2The Great Divide
3 by Reckless Kelly is a standout, blending introspective lyrics with powerful melodies. But Wade Bowen’s
2Unraveled
3 has also garnered critical acclaim, and fans have been vocal about their love for the album. Still,
2Cody Johnson’s Hell Paso
3 might have the edge, as it’s been dominating streaming charts and radio playlists since its release.
When it comes to Song of the Year, the sentimental favorite seems to be Damn Strait by Scotty McCreery. The song has resonated with fans for its clever homage to the great George Strait, and it’s been a staple on Texas country radio. However, Heart Like a Truck by Lainey Wilson is a close contender, thanks to its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics.
The Young Artist of the Year category is perhaps the most exciting, as it showcases the future of Texas country music. Payton Howie has been turning heads with her bold, fiery sound and dynamic performances, making her a strong candidate for the win. But don’t count out Chris Colston, whose smooth vocals and heartfelt songwriting have earned him a dedicated following.
Behind the Scenes: How the Nominees Are Chosen
The TCMA nomination process is a collaborative effort involving a panel of industry professionals, including producers, radio hosts, and music critics, as well as fan input. It’s a rigorous process that ensures only the best make the cut, and this year was no exception. According to Linda Wilson, TCMA President, We had a record number of submissions this year, and it was incredibly difficult to narrow it down. There’s just so much talent out there, and it’s a testament to how strong the Texas country music scene is right now.
The process involves reviewing music released within the eligibility period, considering factors like chart performance, fan engagement, and overall impact on the genre. It’s not just about who has the most hits, said Richard Wilson, Executive VP of the TCMA. We’re looking for artists who have made a real contribution to the genre, who’ve pushed boundaries or upheld the tradition in new and exciting ways.
Fan Voting and Engagement: Your Vote Counts
One of the unique aspects of the TCMA is that fans play a significant role in the outcome. While the final decision rests with the judges, fan votes are a crucial part of the process. Voting is open to the public, and fans can cast their votes online, making their voices heard. The fans are what make Texas country music what it is, said Linda Wilson. Their passion, their loyalty, and their love for the music are what keep this genre thriving. That’s why it’s so important to us that they have a say in who wins.
The fan engagement doesn’t stop at voting, though. This year, the TCMA has introduced more interactive elements, including social media contests, where fans can share their favorite TCMA memories for a chance to win tickets, exclusive merchandise, and even a VIP experience at the awards show. It’s all about making sure that the fans feel like they’re a part of the celebration, not just spectators.
What the Nominees Have to Say
With the nominations announced, the buzz among the nominees is palpable. For many, being recognized by the TCMA is a career milestone. Aaron Watson, who’s up for Entertainer of the Year, shared his excitement, saying, It’s an honor to be nominated alongside so many talented artists. Texas has always been home to me, and it’s where I’ve built my career. To be recognized by the TCMA means the world.
Emerging artist Kaitlin Butts, who’s nominated for Young Artist of the Year, echoed that sentiment. Just being nominated is a huge achievement for me. I’ve been working hard, playing shows, writing songs, and trying to make a name for myself. To see that pay off with a TCMA nomination is incredible, she said.
For others, the nomination is a reminder of how far they’ve come. Curtis Grimes, whose song Beer and Texas is up for Song of the Year, reflected on his journey, saying, I’ve been playing music for a long time, and there have been ups and downs, but this kind of recognition makes it all worth it. I’m just thankful to be part of this community.
Conclusion: Who Will Win?
As the big night approaches, fans and artists alike are eagerly awaiting to see who will take home the coveted TCMA trophies. With such a diverse pool of talent, it’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top, but one thing is for sure: the 2024 Texas Country Music Awards will be a night to remember.
Whether your favorite artist wins or not, the TCMA is about more than just awards. It’s about celebrating the music, the culture, and the community that make Texas country music so special. So, mark your calendars, get your votes in, and get ready for a night of unforgettable performances, heartfelt speeches, and a celebration of everything that makes Texas country music great.
4https://texascountrymusicassociation.org/ Texas Country Music Awards guest list
- Payton Howie
- Damn Strait by Scotty McCreery