Over the years, numerous iconic performances have graced television screens in the country music space. Here are some of our personal favorites that we think helped reshape, redefine, and reinvent the country music genre.
Videos by Wide Open Country
1. Taylor Swift - "Mean" at the Grammys (2012)
Before Taylor Swift transitioned to pop, she was winning awards for country music hits like "White Horse" and "Mean," for which she took home the Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance and Best Country Song in 2012. After facing criticism for a performance she did with Stevie Nicks at the 2010 Grammys, the 20-year-old at the time clapped back by writing "Mean" as a response, and taking home the awards for it to boot. Not only was this an iconic performance because she proved to the critics that they really were just "mean," but she also brought a rustic flair to the Grammy stage with her set and costume design, which contrasted with the award show's typical glitz and glamour.
2. Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss - "Whiskey Lullaby" at the ACM Awards (2004)
"Whiskey Lullaby" is a song that tells the story of a man and woman who drink themselves to death after a breakup. This tune is already known for its dark subject matter. However, add the vocal delivery of Brad Paisley and Allison Krauss to the mix, and that's one hell of a show. Unlike most performances given at the CMAs, this particular song was given its very own moment. There were no flashy distractions to showcase the raw talent of its performers that night. The song itself took home the CMA for Song of the Year in 2005, as well as Musical Event and Music Video. This performance was so exceptional because it demonstrated the power of vocal chemistry between two country music performers and the impact that good country storytelling can truly have on an audience.
3. Miranda Lambert - "Kerosene" at the CMA Awards (2005)
When Miranda Lambert released her breakout hit "Kerosene" in 2005, she wanted to prove she wasn't just another pretty face, but also a force to be reckoned with, and she did that with this performance. Lambert lit up the stage figuratively and literally, as her performance included striking pyrotechnics and flames on stage, surrounding her as she sang the last leg of the song. Mainly because this was her first single, performing "Kerosene" live helped Lambert establish herself as a different archetype of female country artist. She didn't want to be sweet and softspoken; she wanted to "set fire" to the typical country music girl image and watch it burn, and this song and performance gave her that opportunity.
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