George Strait accepts Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award

George Strait accepted the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award on Wednesday night after a star-studded tribute performance of some of his biggest hits.

“First of all, I want to thank my lord and savior, Jesus Christ,” he began. “And I want to thank the CMAs for adding my name to the incredible artists on this small list of recipients carrying the name of the icon, Willie Nelson.”

“I want to thank all of these great artists who performed some of my songs that I’ve recorded over the years,” he said in reference to Lainey Wilson, Jamey Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Parker McCollum and Chris Stapleton. “It’s amazing to hear y’all do them. I’m so glad I got them before you.”

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George Strait accepts the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award onstage during The 58th Annual CMA Awards, Nov. 20, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn.

Strait shouted out his wife, Norma, to whom he said he will have been married for “an amazing 53 years” this December.

He also sent love to his son, his daughter-in-law and his grandchildren.