The second wave of coronavirus is hitting us right now, with COVID-19 cases reaching record highs. But if you were watching the CMAs last night, you’d never know that we were at the apex of a global pandemic.
Lady A and Rascal Flats both pulled out at the last minute due to exposure. However, the show went on at Nashville’s Music City Center.
The attendees, most of whom appeared to be nominees, were sitting at various tables and booths surrounding a circular stage. But if one did a rough count, there were at LEAST 80 people (not counting crew members and performers) sitting in an enclosed space listening to live music at the height of the pandemic.
Yikes.
And that didn't sit well w/ people watching from home. Hosts Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker definitely came within 6 feet of each other and made light of it all during their joint-opening monologue.
People REALLY took issue with the fact that there wasn’t a mask in sight on stage or in the audience.
"We are following all protocols that have been put in place by the CDC as well as the creative unions to ensure we provide the safest environment possible," said a statement on behalf of the CMA.
"Prior to even stepping onto our footprint at MCC, every single person (including artists and their reps) was required to be tested, with many testing repeatedly throughout the week as an extra measure of precaution. Just as with COVID regulations at restaurants, all in attendance are required to wear a mask any time they leave their assigned seat."
Luke Combs and Maren Morris were the big winners last night, with Luke taking home multiple top prizes including Album of the Year.
Maren brought home Single of the Year and Song of the Year for her song "The Bones," while also being named Female Vocalist of the Year.
Other big winners included Eric Church, who was named Entertainer of the Year, Morgan Wallen as New Artist of the Year, Old Dominion claiming Vocal Group of the Year and Dan +Shay taking home Vocal Duo of the Year.
Performances included Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs, Maren Morris, Kelsea Ballerini, Eric Church, Jason Aldean, Dierks Bently, Charlie Puth and Florida Georgia Line.
Source: E!
Photo Credit: Getty Images.