The Real Reason Lee Brice Won't Be Performing At The CMA Awards
This Wednesday, country stars from all over will be taking center stage at the Country Music Association Awards, but there's a name notably missing from the list of performers — Lee Brice.
Yesterday, the singer's rep confirmed that Brice recently tested positive for COVID-19, People explains, and thus will not be attending country music's biggest night. Slated to perform his duet with Carly Pearce, "I Hope You're Happy Now", Brice may have to accept his award for music video of the year from his home.
His rep told the Associated Press that the 41-year-old crooner is "in good spirits and not experiencing any symptoms." Known for his hit songs including, "I Drive Your Truck" and "I Don't Dance", Brice is currently nominated for best musical event of the year and music video of the year for "I Hope You're Happy Now." Instead of performing, his rep told the outlet that the singer will be isolating at home until he's medically cleared.
In spite of the pandemic, the CMAs must go on
A spokesperson for the awards asserted that Brice was tested and got his results before he came on site for rehearsals, the Associated Press reports. "Lee would like to thank the CMAs and all of his incredible fans for his nominations and is wishing his fellow nominees an incredible evening celebrating the best of country music," his rep said in his statement.
November 11th's CMAs will not have fans in attendance, but promises to offer performances from some of the genre's biggest names. Sarah Trahern, CEO of the CMAs, insists that the show will still provide a night of excitement for country music fans across the country despite the pandemic. "We are thrilled to have this incredible group of artists taking the stage at the CMA Awards this year! It is a privilege to bring these live performances to our viewing audience with the energy and excitement that the CMA Awards are known for," she said in a press release (via People).
With the artists being socially distanced, the show will look quite different, but promises to offer the fun all the same. The CMAs will be hosted by Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker, and the night will include performances from Charlie Puth, Lady A, Miranda Lambert, Rascal Flatts, Eric Church and more, People notes.