We all know that the best country songs share a couple of the same ingredients–three chords and the truth. But what does it take to make a Country Music Association’s Award show?

Obviously, it takes enough truth to write all the great songs that are up for awards, and those 3 chords are going to be flat worn out by the end of the show.

Everybody knows what they’re getting with the CMAs. Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood will host the show, like they have for the last 2,000 years. Except now, all bets on who’s hosting this the 2020 Country Music Association Award show are off, as Brad was kicked to the curb, which probably hurt. However, he could take heart knowing it took an entire squadron of female performers to replace him. It’s not likely that he’ll be back this year, since last year’s show was so enjoyable–even without his paisleyhood’s presence.

Of course, nominees are necessary, and there’s no shortage of them. They haven’t been announced yet, but you can be sure the usual suspects will be represented as well as some youngbloods, and maybe a legend or two will be in the running. And, along with the nominees, performers are an absolute staple of the everyday award show, and everybody wants to perform on this show. Expect an eye-popping, opening number/medley and a full blown, show-stopping jam session to close out the night–before everybody heads out to the after parties.

The proper venue is the final element required for a CMA award show, and we all know Nashville means country music. Well, not literally, but it is known as the hub of the industry, so that makes Nashvegas a perfect spot for a bash celebrating country music. Add the beauty of the Bridgestone Arena and the call of the nearby honky-tonks add up to a single day visit or a week-long vacation centered on the CMAs.

Either way, check the event listing for more info on available tickets, prices and such. With all the bases of a great awards show covered so completely, it’s the best way to shake off the pandemonium and get out to a star-studded event. Three chords and the truth coming at ya’.