CMT Awards: Kane and Katelyn Brown Win The Top Prize

Kane and Katelyn Brown won Top Video Award

The CMT Music Awards made a lively debut in Austin, Texas Sunday night, bringing its share of surprises, award upsets, social statements and unexpected pop culture crossovers. These are the moments that stuck with us after a loud, rowdy night at the Moody Center, according to The Tennessean.

.@JellyRoll615 rocked the 2023 #CMTAwards with a performance of his genre-bending hit, “Need a Favor.”https://t.co/SbCcbXYvly

— billboard (@billboard) April 3, 2023

Jelly Roll savors the spotlight

"Rock has Post Malone,” Kane Brown said during his opening monologue with co-host Kelsea Ballerini.

“But country has Jelly Roll,” Ballerini added.

Cut to rapper/singer Jason DeFord – a.k.a. Jelly Roll – leaping to his feet and doffing his cap for the cheering crowd. The “Son of a Sinner” artist has won over countless audiences during his successful move into the country market over the past two years. He did the same with primetime viewers on Sunday, with arguably the most powerful performance of the night, and three wins, including Male Video of the Year.

"It may have looked like it was only 30 yards, but it took me 39 years to walk from over there and right here," said DeFord, who served time in his teens and 20s for aggravated robbery and possession with intent to sell charges.

"...I don't know what you've been through but I know you can overcome it. I promise you. You can be whatever you want to be."

DeFord also gave his all during his cathartic performance of "Need a Favor," complete with a gospel choir.

What can’t our host do? @KelseaBallerini absolutely SLAYED her #CMTAwards performance! 🌈✨ pic.twitter.com/t7f8vZEf6K

— CMT (@CMT) April 3, 2023

A prayer for 'real action' after Covenant shooting

The show didn't open with a song, but an emotional message from country star and co-host Kelsea Ballerini, in the wake of last week's school shooting in Nashville.

Speaking directly to camera without an audience, Ballerini said the names of all six victims, who "walked into The Covenant School and didn't walk out."

"The community of sorrow over this, and the 130 mass shootings in the US this year alone, stretches from coast to coast," she said.

"I pray deeply that the closeness and the community that we feel through the next few hours of music can soon turn into action, like real action, that moves us forward together to create change for the safety of our kids and our loved ones."

You’re the queen of our hearts, @CarrieUnderwood ❤️ She delivered an unforgettable performance of “Hate My Heart" at the #CMTAwards! pic.twitter.com/gMNVGtBBAs

— CMT (@CMT) April 3, 2023

🎵CMT Music Awards 2023: A list of nominees and winners HERE