The Video Music Awards have finally acknowledged what music fans have known for years: country music is as much a part of popular music as pop or hip hop. For the first time ever, the VMAs will include a country music category. Yesterday CBS and MTV announced the nominees for the upcoming 42nd Annual VMAs, and in doing so also revealed the addition of a Best Country Artist category. Considering Morgan Wallen, Shaboozey and Luke Combs (among others) have marked their territory at the top of the pop charts over the last couple years, it makes perfect sense.
Jelly Roll leads the way for country artists with four nominations: Best Country, Best Hip Hop, Best Alternative and Video For Good. Morgan Wallen is right behind him with three noms: Artist of the Year, Best Country and Best Album. Others to receive VMA nominations include Ella Langley, Bailey Zimmerman, Megan Moroney, Lainey Wilson, Cody Johnson, Blake Shelton, Shaboozey, Luke Combs, Blake Shelton, Post Malone and Dasha. The VMAs will take place on September 7 at the USB Arena in New York City. CBS and MTV will simulcast the event live, and Paramount+ will stream it.