The Country Music Association has announced the winners of its 60th CMA Broadcast Awards. Winners learned of their victories through surprise phone calls from artist Zach Top.
What We Know: The CMA Broadcast Awards recognize excellence among country radio personalities and stations nationwide. This year’s winners include Buzz Brainard, Big D & Bubba, and several market-leading morning shows.
The Highway Hot 30 Countdown with Buzz Brainard on SiriusXM won Weekly National Personality of the Year, while Big D & Bubba from Silverfish Media took the daily national honor. In major markets, The Andie Summers Show on 92.5 WXTU in Philadelphia won, while The Jesse & Anna Show on B105.1 in Cincinnati earned the large-market award. Steve & Gina in the Morning on Kat 103 in Omaha took medium-market honors, and Officer Don and DeAnn on 98.1 The Bull in Lexington, Kentucky, won in small markets.
For stations, New Country 96.3 KSCS in Dallas won major market, 94.7 WQDR in Raleigh took large market, Kat 103 in Omaha earned medium market, and 95.7 WKML in Fayetteville, North Carolina, won small market.
What’s at Stake: The awards highlight the personalities and stations connecting with country music audiences. Recognition from the CMA also provides industry-wide acknowledgment for broadcasters competing for listeners and advertisers.
What Remains Unclear: The CMA’s announcement did not specify whether additional recognition or celebrations for the winners will follow. Details about how the surprise calls with Zach Top were coordinated also remain unclear.
What It Means: The 60th CMA Broadcast Awards showcase the continued importance of country radio personalities and local stations. Meanwhile, KXKT/Omaha stands out as a double winner, earning honors for both its morning show and station.
