In 2017, the 51st Country Music Association Awards took on a more somber tone, dedicating the night to honor many beloved people country music lost.
The organization recognized more than 35 country music figures who had left an indelible mark on country music. Legends like Tom Petty, Glen Campbell, Gregg Allman, and Troy Gentry were among those remembered.
The evening began on a series of heartfelt words with Carrie Underwood, who co-hosted the event alongside Brad Paisley for the tenth year in a row.
“This has been a year marked by tragedy, impacting countless lives, including so many in our country music family,” she said. “So tonight, we’re going to do what families do: come together, pray together, cry together, and sing together, too.
Dressed in an ethereal white gown, Carrie Underwood took the stage for a touching tribute to country music legends. With the soft glow of candlelight from the audience surrounding her, she performed the gospel hymn “Softly and Tenderly.” As she sang, images of those who had shaped the world of country music were shown on the screen behind her.
The emotional tribute didn’t end there, though. At the end of her song, she also honored the 58 victims of the tragic Route 91 Harvest music festival shooting in Las Vegas
