This "is for the act displaying the greatest competence in all aspects of the entertainment field." These acts more than meet that test.
The awards presentations and inductions will take place during holiday events in New York, Los Angeles and Nashville.
Keke Palmer & Gayle King were also cited for their purpose and mission-driven work.
Morgan Wallen's “Last Night” takes song of the year; Sony Music Publishing is named publisher of the year.
The CJ ENM exec reveals the vision, challenges and cross-cultural collaborations behind the MAMA's U.S. debut at the Dolby Theater.
Will Lainey Wilson take home a second entertainer of the year win, or could Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton or Jelly Roll pick up a first win in the category?
"There's nothing more fulfilling than writing songs," Moroney said during the event.
The events' differing views seem to embody the tug between tradition and progressiveness.
Look for tributes to George Strait and Tom Petty and an appearance by the Oak Ridge Boys, just months after the death of longtime member Joe Bonsall.
Jennifer Hudson and Jamie Foxx, who walked through the doors Jones opened, paid tribute to the legendary music man.