Pam Tillis is weighing in after Sammy Kershaw claimed the Country Music Association denied his request to walk the CMA Awards red carpet.
In a new social media post, Tillis, known for country hits like “Maybe It Was Memphis” and “Shake the Sugar Tree,” chose not to single out the CMA specifically. Instead, she focused on the country music industry as a whole, emphasizing that veteran artists deserve to be recognized and included rather than overlooked.
“So let’s talk about today’s drama in country music: Sammy Kershaw and the CMAs. I’m not going to single out the CMA, because this happens all the time in our business. It’s the nature of our industry that the rising stars get the spotlight, just as we did at one point,” she began.
Remembering the Importance of Legacy
Tillis also reflected on growing up as the daughter of Country Music Hall of Famer Mel Tillis, explaining that she learned early on that “a legacy doesn’t keep itself.”
“Somebody has to stand up and say, ‘This artist mattered. They made a contribution.’ I’ve done that for Daddy most of my life,” she wrote.
Why ’90s Country Still Matters
The singer went on to point out that ’90s country remains popular with fans today, noting that many of the genre’s current stars are finding success with their own take on the sound.
“And I’ll tell you what I’ve seen: the country audience is a multigenerational audience, and ‘90s country is still very viable, even if it isn’t always visible. A lot of us have three generations of fans showing up to our shows, singing, whooping and hollering for our songs. Many of today’s artists are making it big with their own spin on the ‘90s sound.”
Tillis acknowledged that today’s rising stars need support, but said veteran artists shouldn’t be overlooked. She pointed out that they helped shape country music and still have a place in where the genre is headed.
A Call to Recognize Veteran Artists
“I dare say many of us have felt the sting of being passed over for this, that and the other, in order to create an image that’s only part of the picture. I know today’s new artists need all the support they can get in such a crazy, competitive market. But legacy artists who want to show up can be the bridge between where this music came from and where it’s going. Many of us never say anything about these slights. We just keep on doing our thing. As an artist who is a lifetime CMA member, Sammy just spoke out.”
In closing, Tillis encouraged the industry to make room for veteran artists across all areas of country music, whether on the radio, at events or on the red carpet. She also thanked younger performers who continue to recognize and appreciate the artists who paved the way.
“So to wind it up, whether it’s radio, a marquee or the red carpet, don’t shut them out. And thank you to the young artists who show respect and let us know we’ve inspired them. Daddy got to hear some of that before he left us, and I can tell you it meant the world to him.”
Her post included photos alongside her friends and fellow stars such as Travis Tritt, Neal McCoy, Lorrie Morgan, and Terri Clark.
Clark also chimed in on her post, writing, “As always, you speak truth with honesty and eloquence. I couldn’t have said it any better my dear sister in song. Every single aspect of this post rings so true. Maybe if nothing else- the acknowledgement and respect that will come to our generation because someone dared to say it out loud, will grow. And of course it was @sammykershaw … he’s never been a shrinking violet and we love him for it.”