The CMA Country Christmas is returning to the screen to commemorate its 15th anniversary. Scheduled to air on December 3, 2024, this festive extravaganza will be hosted by the talented Amy Grant and the beloved Trisha Yearwood. Audiences can look forward to spectacular performances by renowned artists, including the exceptionally gifted Ashley McBryde. She is set to share the stage with her friend and fellow artist Brittney Spencer, promising a memorable musical experience.

As reported by American Songwriter, the 41-year-old singer expressed her enthusiasm regarding this collaboration: “When I found out I [get] to collab, I was immediately excited and curious as to who I would get to sing with” and “It’s Brittney Spencer. I could not be more excited. She got pipes.” These statements reflect not only her passion for music but also her respect for fellow artists in the industry.

Before this enchanting special airs on ABC—and becomes accessible the following day on Disney+ and Hulu—here’s everything you need to know about this exciting event!

Discover the Remarkable Journey of Country Music Artist Ashley McBryde

Ashley McBryde is widely recognized for her chart-topping singles such as “A Little Dive Bar In Dahlonega,” “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” and “One Night Standards.” The former track has achieved Gold certification by the RIAA, while “One Night Standards” boasts the prestigious status of a Platinum-selling single. Her debut album, released in 2018, titled Girl Going Nowhere, firmly established her as a compelling new voice in the country music landscape. Following that success, she released her highly anticipated sophomore album, Never Will, in 2020, further solidifying her position in the industry.

Celebrating Ashley McBryde’s Award-Winning Accomplishments in Country Music

Ashley McBryde has already earned herself a prestigious Academy of Country Music Award, triumphing as the ACM New Female Vocalist of the Year in 2018. Since that remarkable achievement, she has received multiple nominations from the Academy, including notable categories such as Song of the Year for her hits “Girl Goin’ Nowhere” and “One Night Standards,” as well as Female Artist of the Year and Single of the Year. In addition to these nominations, she has also won an ACM for Musical Event of the Year and a Country Music Association Award for New Artist of the Year, showcasing her talent and impact on the country music scene.

Ashley McBryde’s Inspiring Journey: Hard Work and Dedication

Hailing from Saddle, Arkansas, Ashley began her journey in music at a young age, writing songs since she was just 12 years old. During her high school years, she confided in her algebra teacher about her aspirations to write songs in Nashville. Unfortunately, her teacher dismissed her dream, stating, “That’s stupid. That won’t happen, and you better have a really good backup plan.” This moment stuck with Ashley for many years, serving as a reminder of the challenges she faced.

Fortunately for Ashley, her mother was her unwavering supporter. “I could have said I want to be a one-legged purple gorilla and she would have said, ‘OK, honey,’” Ashley recalled in a 2019 interview with Rolling Stone. She emphasized that not everyone receives encouragement in their pursuits. “If anybody has told you not to pursue what sets your soul on fire, they are wrong,” she passionately stated, reflecting her belief in following one’s true calling.

While studying French Horn at Arkansas State University, Ashley initially envisioned a future as a band director. However, as she started making trips to Memphis to perform, she realized she couldn’t abandon her dreams of a music career. This epiphany led her to drop out of college and move to Music City, where she dedicated a decade to making her dream a reality despite facing financial hardships. Her fortunes changed in 2017 when she signed with Q Prime management, and later that year, Warner Music released her debut single, “A Little Dive Bar In Dahlonega.” The following year marked the release of her acclaimed album, Girl Going Nowhere.

Ashley McBryde: Finding Success by Embracing Authenticity

For the cover of her 2016 EP, Jalopies & Expensive Guitars, Ashley attempted to conform to industry standards by straightening her naturally curly hair. The songs featured were initially written for other artists as part of her effort to fit into the industry mold. “We were trying to play the game,” she admitted to The New York Times. However, when the EP did not achieve the success she desired, Ashley decided to embrace her true self, allowing her hair to return to its natural curls and increasing her tattoos. This pivotal decision marked the beginning of her authentic journey in the music industry.

Ashley McBryde’s Chilled Out Approach to Success

If you perceive Ashley McBryde as someone who exudes a chill demeanor, you would be correct. During the 2021 ACM Awards nominations, instead of anxiously awaiting her name to be called, she was driving back from a writing retreat. It was during this drive that she discovered her album Never Will was nominated for Album of the Year, learning the news from one of her fellow nominees.

“I got a text from John Osborne [of Brothers Osborne],” McBryde shared with Taste of Country. “Of course, he left out the part that he was in the category, too.” Ultimately, the prestigious award went to Chris Stapleton’s Starting Over, but Ashley’s easygoing attitude towards the situation showcases her genuine love for music over accolades.