Shania Twain Becomes Third-Ever Recipient Of CMT Equal Play Award

Shania Twain took the stage at the CMT Music Awards, where she was honored with the CMT Equal Play Award. This prestigious award recognizes Twain as a visible and vocal advocate for elevating diverse and underrepresented voices in country music.

Twain’s career spans over three decades and has left an indelible mark on the country music scene. With hits like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” and “That Don’t Impress Me Much,” Twain has become an icon in the industry, breaking barriers and paving the way for other female artists.

In addition to her trailblazing music career, Twain has been an outspoken advocate for diversity and inclusion in country music. She has used her platform to shine a light on underrepresented voices and has worked to create opportunities for artists of all backgrounds to succeed in the industry.

The CMT Equal Play Award is a well-deserved honor for Twain, who has long championed equality and representation in country music. As she takes the stage at the CMT Music Awards, fans can expect to see a powerful performance from one of the genre’s most influential artists.

Twain took to Instagram to express her gratitude to CMT, saying, “I’m truly honoured to be receiving the CMT Equal Play Award at the 2023 #CMTAwards this Sunday of course! My trailblazing ways have always got me far in life and now I have the privilege of shining a light on other unquestionable talent.”

She continued, “Keep kicking down doors, bending rules and rebelling against what is expected because it’s inspiring to us all – I wouldn’t have achieved anything if I stayed between the lines!”

Past CMT Equal Play Award recipients include Linda Martell and Jennifer Nettles. Texas native Megan Thee Stallion introduced the legend, saying, “I just met her and she’s my new bestie.”

“Man! I Feel Like A Woman” played as Shania walked up to accept her trailblazing award wearing a purple crop top and matching shorts, and a black cowboy hat.

She started her acceptance speech with:

“Let me start by saying, ‘Let’s go girls!’”

But she got serious and thanked CMT for this award, noting that she never expected to have a decades-long career, and one being so impactful at that.

This was a full circle moment for Shania Twain.

“You may not know this, but the CMT Rising Star Award was my very first award ever, 30 years ago,” she said. “So CMT holds a very special place in my heart. I promise I will continue to champion country artists that are not currently played at the level they deserve. I believe in an all inclusive country music family.”

Watch her acceptance speech below.