CMT Music Awards 2021 sees Carrie Underwood and John Legend take home top award, Chris Stapleton perform

Carrie Underwood and John Legend took home the top award at the Country Music Television (CMT) Music Awards Wednesday evening.

The duo won video of the year for “Hallelujah.” Underwood, who extended her record as the most decorated artist in the history of the CMT Music Awards, accepted the nod on her and Legend’s behalf.

“Thank you fans! Thank you CMT!” Underwood said. “You’re the reason we’re all here doing what we do, doing what we love (and) making music videos.”

The 23-time CMT Music Award winner also shouted out Legend, particularly for sending her the song, which appeared on her first holiday album “My Gift.” “Congratulations on what I think is your first CMT Award. Whoa!” she exclaimed

The star-studded event kicked off from Nashville, Tenn., with a performance by Lady A. The trio was joined onstage by Carly Pearce and Lindsay Ell.

Ell stepped in after Gabby Barrett bowed out, citing “personal circumstances.”

Cameras then took viewers to a farm where Chris Stapleton performed “Arkansas.”

Following the two performances, hosts Kane Brown and Kelsea Ballerini took the stage. “After this year … I’m thirsty for a great party,” Brown said.

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