Country music icon George Strait received the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 CMA Awards, marking a historic night for fans and the genre. Strait is now just the ninth recipient of this rare honor.

Though “Entertainer of the Year” is often the CMA’s top title, this year, George Strait’s Lifetime Achievement recognition stole the spotlight.

Why George Strait Received This Rare Award

The Country Music Association (CMA) only gives this award to artists who have made an unparalleled impact on the genre. The criteria include:

• Global recognition

• Live performance legacy

• Streaming and sales achievements

• Humanitarian and philanthropic efforts

CMA CEO Sarah Trahern explained:

“As the most-nominated CMA artist ever and a three-time Entertainer of the Year, George is an icon who inspires today’s rising stars.”

Who Else Has Earned the Willie Nelson Award?

George Strait joins a list of legendary artists:

• Willie Nelson (2012)

• Kenny Rogers (2013)

• Johnny Cash (2015)

• Dolly Parton (2016)

• Kris Kristofferson (2019)

• Charley Pride (2020)

• Loretta Lynn (2021)

• Alan Jackson (2022)

Country Stars Paid Tribute to the King of Country

A powerful musical tribute featured today’s biggest stars:

• Lainey Wilson opened with “Amarillo By Morning”

• Jamey Johnson followed with “Give It Away,” which he co-wrote

• Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum teamed up for “Troubadour”

• Chris Stapleton joined Strait on stage for a surprise duet of “Honky Tonk Highway”

George Strait’s Emotional Acceptance Speech

After the tribute, George Strait stepped on stage to accept his award—and began by thanking his faith:

“First of all, I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”

He continued by honoring those who made his career possible:

• Fellow artists who performed his songs

• His record label, band, and loyal fans

• His late manager, road manager, and fiddle player

A Special Moment With Family

Strait then turned his gratitude to his family, all of whom were present:

• His wife of nearly 53 years, Norma

• His son Bubba and daughter-in-law Tamara

• His grandchildren Harvey and Jillian

“It’s so great to have you all here,” he said warmly.
“Especially Norma, who has supported me for just shy of 53 years.”

As the camera panned to Norma, viewers saw her eyes well up in pride and emotion.

“Thank you!” Strait said as he left the stage.

“Last but not least,” Strait thanked his family, who were all in attendance: his wife of nearly 53 years, Norma, their son Bubba, his daughter-in-law, Tamara, and his grandchildren, Harvey and Jillian.

He told them, “It’s so great to have you all here, especially Norma, who has supported me for just shy of 53 years.” 

The camera cut to Norma, who was beaming with pride and could even be seen tearing up a bit.

“Thank you!” Strait said before walking off stage.

Watch his acceptance speech below.