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Introduction
Chris Stapleton and Brooks & Dunn stand among the most celebrated names in the history of the Country Music Association Awards, each having collected an impressive total of 19 CMA Awards. Their achievements reflect not only personal success but also decades of influence on the genre. While both artists share the same total award count, their paths to that number tell slightly different stories. Chris Stapleton has earned 42 nominations throughout his career — an incredible accomplishment considering his rise to major fame only began in the mid-2010s. His soulful voice, emotional songwriting, and modern interpretations of traditional country music have made him one of the strongest forces in the industry today.
In contrast, Brooks & Dunn — the iconic duo made up of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn — received 57 nominations, showcasing their dominance during the 1990s and early 2000s. Their blend of honky-tonk energy and polished radio-friendly sound shaped the direction of country music for years. Songs like “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” and “My Maria” became staples of the genre and helped define the modern country landscape.
This year, the anticipation surrounding Chris Stapleton continues to grow. He is once again nominated for Male Vocalist of the Year, a category he has won multiple times already. If he wins again, he will officially become the artist with the most CMA Awards in history — surpassing Brooks & Dunn and setting a new benchmark for excellence. Many fans and critics believe Stapleton’s continued success is well deserved, given his consistent artistic integrity and the emotional impact of his music.
Whether he earns the record this year or not, the shared legacy of Chris Stapleton and Brooks & Dunn highlights the evolution of country music across generations. Their achievements represent both tradition and innovation, reminding audiences that country music remains a genre built on storytelling, heart, and timeless artistry.