Ashley McBryde delivered a heartfelt tribute to the late Kris Kristofferson during the 2024 CMA Awards, which took place on November 22, following the country music icon's passing at the age of 88 just weeks prior. Kristofferson, who was known for his significant contributions to country music, passed away at his home in Maui, Hawaii, on September 28. His legacy includes not only iconic songs but also memorable acting roles, including his performance alongside Barbra Streisand in the 1976 film A Star Is Born—a role for which he won a Golden Globe.
McBryde’s performance featured her acoustic rendition of “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” which Kristofferson originally released in 1970. The song, which has also been covered by several other artists, became one of Kristofferson's most recognized hits. During her performance, images of Kristofferson were projected on the screen behind her, creating a touching visual tribute to the man who had inspired countless musicians.
“When the night falls and I’m feeling alone, I often look to Kris’ music to comfort me,” McBryde shared on the red carpet prior to the show. She revealed how her father, also a country music fan, had taught her to play the song when she was too young to hold the guitar properly. The emotional connection to the song made her tribute even more poignant, especially as she expressed hope her father would be watching.
Before her tribute, McBryde made quite the fashion statement, initially appearing on the red carpet dressed elegantly in a plum dress with flowing cape details. Later, she opted for a more casual outfit for the performance—a black tuxedo-style look complemented by denim, showcasing her unique style. Embracing her natural curls and tattoos, McBryde strummed the guitar with grace and poise as she delivered her heartfelt vocals.
The 2024 CMA Awards also paid tribute to other late icons. The night included performances honoring Toby Keith and Tom Petty, both of whom had made significant impacts on the music world. Toby Keith, who passed away from stomach cancer earlier this year, was remembered through heartfelt toasts led by hosts Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and Peyton Manning, who lifted their red Solo cups, referencing his iconic song “Red Solo Cup.” Similarly, Tom Petty’s legacy was honored as Dierks Bentley performed “American Girl” with other musicians.
While the CMA Awards celebrated the music and contributions of these legends, Ashley McBryde's tribute to Kris Kristofferson stood out as one of the evening's emotional highlights. Social media buzzed following the performance, with attendees reflecting on the emotional depth of her tribute. Fans commended her for capturing the essence of Kristofferson’s spirit, with many expressing gratitude for how she honored his music and memory.
“Beautiful tribute to Kris! You could tell how much it meant to his family!” one fan remarked following the performance. McBryde’s sentiment echoed the heartfelt feelings of tribute across the night as attendees celebrated the deep connection they share with the music created by Kristofferson and his contemporaries.
Details surrounding Kristofferson's passing remained somewhat private, as his family did not disclose specific causes. It was known, though, he had battled health issues, including Lyme disease and memory loss, both of which are common challenges faced by aging artists. Nevertheless, Kristofferson’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. He played not just as a performer but also as a songwriter whose work has influenced many.
McBryde's decision to perform one of his signature songs was met with appreciation, allowing many to reminisce about their own personal connections to Kristofferson's music. The evening was not only about remembering those who have left us but also about the joy and solace their contributions continue to bring. With touching performances and shared memories, the 2024 CMA Awards paved the way for artists to reflect on their musical journeys, intertwined with those who paved the way before them.
Post-show, McBryde shared photos and snippets from the ceremony across her social media, inviting fans to witness the tribute’s heartfelt moments alongside her. Seeing the outpouring of love from both Kristofferson's and her own fanbase reaffirmed the importance of music as not just entertainment but also as personal reflections of life experiences, memories, and emotional connections.
Looking forward, the country music community remains vibrant and united, reminding us all of the power of music to unite, inspire, and heal, all of which were beautifully encapsulated during the CMA Awards tribute to the late Kris Kristofferson. McBryde’s acoustic rendition was more than just performance; it served as an emotional reminder of how music can bridge generations, honoring the past as it enriches the present.
