It was a celebratory evening in Nashville tonight as Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Hunter Hayes and Tim McGRaw were honored as this year's CMT Artists of the Year during the 90-minute special broadcast live from Music City Center. Hosted by Ron White, the five honorees were applauded by their peers and other superstars during an exclusive night of wall-to-wall performances and special appearances.
The evening kicked-off with an opening segment featuring the legendary Ron Burgundy and the cast of "Anchorman 2" to introduce the host for the evening. Much to Burgundy's chagrin, the 'other Ron' was chosen to host this year's show and he struggled to grasp why anyone "would order White when you can have Burgundy?" Burgundy and crew would go on to make several skit-like appearances throughout the evening, mostly with Burgundy complaining that country group Alabama should have been included in this year's group of honorees. Scotch in hand, Ron White took the stage and welcomed everyone out to this year's show, the first time CMT Artists of the Year has been broadcast live and the first time a live show has been held at Nashville's Music City Center.Tim McGRaw was the first honoree of the evening, receiving his award from Dwight Yoakam. McGraw thanked his "girls," wife Faith Hill and three daughters, who accompanied him for the evening. He also gave props to the younger, newer generation of artists who he said inspire him in his own career. Lady Antebellum then took the stage to perform a rocking rendition of McGraw's hit "Highway Don't Care" with surprise special guest Peter Frampton joining on guitar. Honoree Florida Georgia Line performed next with "Stay," and presenting their award was one of their idols, Alabama. The duo gave thanks to country radio, their fellow peers for accepting them in country music and to their fans for being loyal and supportive.Videos