CMA Awards: Sammy Kershaw says he was denied red carpet access
The Country Music Association apologized for its selection criteria after the veteran singer posted that his request to attend the 60th anniversary show was rejected.
By Rafael Bailey ·
Fifty years. That is how long Sammy Kershaw has worked in the music industry before the Country Music Association rejected his request to walk the red carpet at the 2026 CMA Awards. The singer of the 1990s hit “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful” announced the denial in a Facebook post on Nov. 5, stating that he received the news two weeks before the ceremony.
Kershaw described the process as a case of being strung along for several months. He noted that he adjusted his touring schedule and booked flights and hotels for himself and his wife, Mendy, who was looking forward to sharing a special evening celebrating the genre. The singer said the rejection hurt because he had not attended these events often due to schedule conflicts.
The artist listed his qualifications in the post. He cited millions of records sold, more than two dozen Billboard charted hits, and a CMA Horizon Award nomination. He also mentioned his status as a lifetime CMA member, a title presented to him in 1992, and his recent participation at CMA Fest. Kershaw said he hoped his history in the business earned him the opportunity to walk the carpet alongside his wife, a privilege he claimed to have held in previous years.
The Country Music Association responded to the backlash with a statement addressing the red carpet guidelines. The organization explained that the criteria exist to manage limited space and security needs for artists and media at a major televised event. The CMA expressed deep regret that anyone felt excluded by the decisions made for the 60th anniversary show.
The statement emphasized the difficulty of spotlighting six decades of history while celebrating a strong 2026 season in a single night. The association acknowledged that the issue is about more than just the red carpet. It affirmed a commitment to keep listening and to ensure all artists feel welcome and at home.
The CMA confirmed it is currently in touch with Kershaw’s team. The organization said it looks forward to continuing that conversation.
Kershaw’s post drew attention to the specific criteria used for the 2026 event, a year marking the 60th anniversary of the awards.
