The 58th Country Music Association Awards will take place on Wednesday, coinciding with a significant moment in country music as it crosses into the pop realm like never before.

Although not nominated for any CMA Awards, global icon Beyoncé is joining other artists like Post Malone in bringing a pop sensibility to country music. We are also seeing greater mainstream acclaim for stars such as Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson. This also includes Entertainer of the Year contenders like Luke Combs and Jelly Roll.

But who will come out on top?

Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which dominated the Hot 100 for nearly five straight months, complicates predictions this year.

The CMA Awards cycle from July 2023 to June 2024 featured a staggering number of sold-out shows, showcasing notable achievements from all nominated artists.

Provided by the Tennessean, part of the YSL News Network, here are thoughts and predictions regarding the big winners at the awards show.

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR

Predicted winner: Chris Stapleton

It has been nearly ten years since Stapleton took the CMA Awards stage to perform “Tennessee Whiskey” alongside Justin Timberlake. Since then, he has remarkably surpassed his already significant talent from 2015. With endorsements from legends like Willie Nelson and George Strait, he now seamlessly transitions from performing in arenas to stadiums.

Should win: Jelly Roll

Every nominee has their share of impressive accolades this year, but Jelly Roll has captivated audiences in unique ways. He has invited inmates on stage during performances and has entertained fans in the rain. His growth and the innovative nature of his shows deserve recognition. While he says he prefers collaborative awards, his impressive record of sold-out arenas and genre-bending guests certainly argues otherwise.

SINGLE OF THE YEAR

Predicted winner: “I Had Some Help” – Post Malone (Feat. Morgan Wallen)

Post Malone’s rise as a country artist marks a pivotal shift in how pop and country music merge. Morgan Wallen has also evolved rapidly, transitioning from a successful single-seller to a true pop star, capable of matching Post Malone’s success. This collaboration has paved the way for country artists to gain traction in mainstream media, thanks to its catchy nature and radio-friendly appeal.

Should win: “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey

Shaboozey’s hit has become the soundtrack of the summer and has set numerous records, including the longest-running Hot 100 No. 1 by a solo artist, currently at 17 weeks. Furthermore, he made history by topping all four Billboard charts: Country Airplay, Pop Airplay, Adult Pop Airplay, and Rhythmic Airplay. He is also the first Black male artist to reach No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Country Songs Charts, combining both party rap and country line-dance vibes.

SONG OF THE YEAR

Predicted winner: Cody Johnson’s “The Painter,” written by Benjy Davis, Kat Higgins, Ryan Larkins

Cody Johnson’s approach to songwriting and creating hit songs is highly commendable. Over the past five years, this once-independent artist has matured into a reliable hitmaker with Warner Music Group, demonstrating consistent growth with each new release.

Cody Johnson has increasingly moved away from his connections to Texas and Western culture. His song “The Painter” reflects his exceptional talent as a vocalist known for love songs, capturing the pure essence of country music and creating instant classics for its dedicated fans.

Who should win: Cody Johnson’s “Dirt Cheap,” written by Josh Phillips

The Song of the Year award recognizes a songwriter for their artistic accomplishment in songwriting. This award focuses on exceptional storytelling and clever wordplay rather than sales or streaming numbers. This year, Josh Phillips’ song “Dirt Cheap,” as performed by Cody Johnson, is in the spotlight. The song’s protagonist explains why their land is invaluable as they face pressure from wealthy buyers, eloquently portraying the importance of family, cherished memories with a beloved dog, and heartfelt moments with his daughter—all rooted in the dirt that carries significant meaning.

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Who will win: “Leather” – Cody Johnson

Being around Cody Johnson, one can’t help but notice his straightforward and determined demeanor. He expresses his intentions clearly and strives to exceed expectations. His double album “Leather” is designed to be a monumental work, especially after performing for a crowd of 80,000 at the Houston Rodeo in 2022.

Who should win: “Fathers and Sons” – Luke Combs

While Luke Combs’ fifth studio album may not have produced chart-topping hits comparable to “When It Rains It Pours” or “Beautiful Crazy,” “Fathers and Sons” offers a touching collection of songs inspired by fatherhood. From tracks like “In Case I Ain’t Around” to “The Man He Sees In Me,” Combs reflects on the transformative experience of being a father of two and shares heartfelt insights that resonate with listeners as he explores the influence of his own dad, who inspired his rendition of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car.”

FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

Who will win: Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves has emerged as a key figure promoting diversity within country music, collaborating with artists like Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Sabrina Carpenter, and Zach Bryan. In her song “Deeper Well,” she stays true to her country roots while exploring new sounds in playful collaborations. Few female vocalists can convey poignant messages as sweetly and effectively as she does.

Who should win: Ashley McBryde

Ashley McBryde’s formidable voice comes from genuinely relatable experiences. Her 2023 album “The Devil I Know” showcases her many identities, allowing listeners to see themselves in her music. From the relatable “Light On In The Kitchen” to the edgy “Blackout Betty,” she conveys her emotions with an unmistakable voice that communicates authenticity. McBryde is one of country music’s most genuine talents deserving recognition for her vocal prowess.

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

Who will win: Jelly Roll

Five years ago, Jelly Roll was known for his rapping and soft melodies, but he has since evolved into a powerful vocalist who blends styles between folk and soul music. His songs like “Save Me,” “I Am Not Okay,” and his collaboration with MGK, “Lonely Road,” resonate deeply. While he may not be the most technically skilled singer in country music, there’s no doubt his voice has made a significant impact in the past year.

Who should win: Chris Stapleton

Few voices in any genre can match the power, soul, and honesty of Chris Stapleton. If you were to ask a group of ten people to name the best voice in country music, many would likely point to Stapleton. He consistently delivers impactful songs that speak to listeners. From the beautiful duet “Think I’m In Love With You” with Dua Lipa to his heartfelt song “White Horse,” Stapleton remains dominant in this vocal category.

VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR

Predicted winner: The War and Treaty

Michael and Tanya Trotter, the duo known as The War and Treaty, are poised for award-winning success in country music. They have secured their second consecutive nomination for CMA’s Vocal Duo of the Year, thanks to their chart-topping collaboration “Hey Driver” with Zach Bryan and their EP “Lover’s Game,” building upon a decade of critical recognition. Additionally, they are now featured on SiriusXM’s “The Highway,” a popular country music channel, and are seeing growth in visibility through various sponsorship deals. Their live performances consistently elicit standing ovations from adoring crowds, making 2024 their breakout year.

Who truly deserves to win: The War and Treaty

The War and Treaty transcend the label of a mere vocal duo; they embody a partnership as husband and wife. They share their life journey with audiences who are fortunate enough to witness their performances. Their heartfelt passion resonates in every show, making them worthy of every accolade for artists with such intensity. The Trotters effortlessly glide through genres, from pure country to gospel and rock, making their mark in each category in a way few can replicate.

NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Predicted winner: Shaboozey

Shaboozey has been on the rise for five years and is now recognized as the CMA’s New Artist of the Year. He has skillfully transformed mainstream moments into pivotal opportunities. As an African-American country artist with hip-hop roots, he brings a distinct flair to the genre while being a remarkable artist in his own right. Upon arriving in Nashville, he came armed with innovative ideas and dynamic pop-inspired songs, showing a commitment to expanding his artistic identity, which aspiring stars from any background should embrace.

Who truly deserves to win: Megan Moroney

Megan Moroney stands out among recent country music newcomers for continuously surpassing expectations on her journey to stardom. With at least three songs (“Tennessee Orange,” “I’m Not Pretty,” “No Caller ID”) that have the makings of instant classics, she encapsulates the current allure of female singer-songwriters in the genre. In just 18 months, she has rapidly evolved from a TikTok favorite to performing at sold-out stadiums alongside Kenny Chesney.