Shelton and Bryan, known as much for their humor and camaraderie as their chart-topping hits, stepped on stage to roaring applause. With Shelton’s deep, rugged voice and Bryan’s smooth Southern drawl, the duo delivered a fresh yet faithful take on the 1982 classic. Their playful energy lit up the room as they traded verses and harmonized on the iconic chorus:
“Play me some mountain music, like Grandma and Grandpa used to play…”
The performance was a nod to Alabama’s enduring legacy in country music, and Shelton and Bryan’s chemistry added a modern flair to the nostalgic tune. Backed by a full band, complete with fiddle and banjo, the stage transformed into a lively celebration of country’s roots. The crowd—including some of the genre’s biggest stars—clapped, sang along, and cheered throughout the performance.
Both Shelton and Bryan took moments to honor Alabama and the song’s impact on country music. Shelton quipped, “This is the kind of song that made me want to pick up a guitar in the first place,” while Bryan added, “If this doesn’t get your boots stompin’, I don’t know what will!”
The 2024 BMI Country Awards celebrated the best in songwriting and honored country music legends, with “Mountain Music” being recognized as one of BMI’s all-time greatest hits. Alabama originally released the song in 1982, and it went on to become a staple of the genre, blending Southern rock influences with traditional country storytelling.
Shelton and Bryan’s performance was a reminder of the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to bridge generations of country fans. Their duet was met with a standing ovation, and the two stars shared a laugh and a friendly embrace as they exited the stage.
