As this announcement was made I found it as no surprise and a well made choice for an artist who has stood the test of time. Randy Travis is a legend who deserves this award with no reservations.
Randy will be honored with the “Artist of A Lifetime" award presented by The Ram Truck Brand at this year’s “CMT Artists of the Year” event. He will join the illustrious ranks alongside previous “Lifetime” honorees including Reba McEntire (2019), Loretta Lynn (2018), Shania Twain (2016), Kenny Rogers (2015) and Merle Haggard (2014).
“It is a privilege to announce Randy Travis as the recipient of this year’s CMT Artist of a Lifetime Award. His historic career encompassing multiple genres illuminates his extraordinary talent, determination, and lasting influence on country music and beyond,” said Leslie Fram, Senior Vice President, Music & Talent, CMT. “Randy’s unmistakable, traditional country sound has shaped multiple generations and we’re honored to celebrate this deserved lifetime honor with him.”
"To think you receive a Lifetime Achievement award for sharing your heart with the world through music is really beyond words of gratitude. CMT has been so good to me throughout my career and I'm happy they believe I gave something in return. I'm blessed and most thankful," Randy shared.
The 2021 “CMT Artists of the Year” celebration will air LIVE from Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Wednesday, October 13 at 9p/8c on CMT. The award comes as Randy celebrates 35 years of his debut album, 'Storms of Life,' with Friday's release of a deluxe edition offering three never-before-heard songs and remastered versions of the ten iconic original tracks.
Randy Travis has had a storied history with CMT, including headlining an unforgettable episode of CMT’s critically acclaimed music series “CMT Crossroads” in 2012 with Avett Brothers, which was also nominated for a CMT Music Award that same year. He additionally appeared in “CMT Cross Country'' alongside Josh Turner and served as a mentor for CMT’s talent search “Music City Madness” in 2008.
Congratulations to Randy Travis for this well deserved prestigious award. Make plans to watch or set your recorders as to not miss a moment.