CMT is set to honor the 20th anniversary of its flagship awards show with a special retrospective titled “CMT Music Awards: Ultimate Party Edition.” The 90-minute program promises a deep dive into two decades of memorable moments, artist interviews, and fan-favorite performances, premiering on Thursday, July 17, at 9 p.m. ET.
A Look Back at Twenty Years of Country Music
The “CMT Music Awards: Ultimate Party Edition” will offer viewers a comprehensive journey through the history of the awards, showcasing pivotal moments and highlights that have defined country music over the past twenty years. This celebratory special is designed to engage longtime fans and introduce newer audiences to the show’s rich legacy.
Exclusive Artist Insights
A significant draw of the anniversary special will be the inclusion of new sit-down interviews with a star-studded lineup of artists who have shaped the landscape of country music. Among those sharing their experiences and reflections are Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Cody Johnson, Cole Swindell, Darius Rucker, Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Little Big Town, and Luke Bryan. These artists will revisit their most memorable appearances on the CMT Music Awards stage, sharing candid stories and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that have never been told before. Their personal accounts are expected to provide a unique and intimate perspective on the awards’ impact on their careers and the genre as a whole.
Fan Engagement: Vote for the Ultimate Performance
In a move to involve the passionate CMT audience, fans will have the exclusive opportunity to decide the “Ultimate Fan Favorite Performance.” Voting for this special category will be open through CMT’s official Facebook and Instagram channels, starting Friday, July 11, and concluding Monday, July 14. The winner of this fan-driven poll will be revealed during the premiere of the “CMT Music Awards: Ultimate Party Edition,” adding an interactive element to the celebratory broadcast.
Extended Viewing Opportunities
To ensure that as many fans as possible can tune in for this milestone celebration, the “CMT Music Awards: Ultimate Party Edition” will also be re-aired on Saturday, July 19, at 12 p.m. ET. This additional broadcast offers a second chance for viewers to catch the special and relive the best of the CMT Music Awards’ twenty-year history.
The “CMT Music Awards: Ultimate Party Edition” is poised to be a significant event for country music enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic look back at the genre’s evolution through the lens of one of its most celebrated award shows. With insights from top artists and a chance for fan participation, the special promises to be a definitive celebration of two decades of country music’s biggest stars and unforgettable performances.

