Media outlets covering the 2017 CMA Awards from the red carpet cannot ask artists about their political affiliations, views on gun rights or the Las Vegas shooting. Those who break from these guidelines could have their credentials revoked “via security escort.”
The 2017 CMA Award media guidelines were distributed on Thursday morning (Nov. 2). The updates, the document says, were made out of respect for the artists in an effort to allow everyone to feel comfortable speaking to media. Media members agree by accepting credentials. The request reads as follows:
In light of recent events, and out of respect for the artists directly or indirectly involved, please refrain from focusing your coverage of the CMA Awards Red Carpet and Backstage Media Center on the Las Vegas tragedy, gun rights, political affiliations or topics of the like. It’s vital, more so this year than in year’s (sic) past due to the sensitivities at hand, that the CMA Awards be a celebration of Country Music and the artists that make this genre so great. It’s an evening to honor the outstanding achievements in Country Music of the previous year and we want everyone to feel comfortable talking to press about this exciting time. If you are reported as straying from these guidelines, your credential will be reviewed and potentially revoked via security escort. We appreciate your cooperation in advance.
This unusual ask comes as politics, gun rights and safety at concerts and festivals pushes more and more to the forefront of daily discourse. Fifty-eight people were killed when a gunman opened fire at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas as Jason Aldean was performing on Oct. 1. Several more singers were backstage at the time, and in the days and weeks afterward, dozens more spoke up on social media. Some, like Aaron Lewis, insisted stricter gun control measures were not the answer, with others simply paying tribute to the victims.
A few artists have poked fun at the CMA’s stricter-than-normal guidelines on social media, with Margo Price saying “And people wonder why I’m not invited.” Ryan Adams took a dig at country music as a whole:
The 2017 CMA Awards air on ABC at 8PM ET on Nov. 8. For a third straight year Taste of Country will be live streaming from the red carpet. “Burning House” singer Cam will co-host Taste of Country’s live broadcast.
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This Article Was Originally Posted at www.TasteofCountry.com
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