Storytelling is at the heart of what we do, ... We both strive to capture and reflect the full range of human emotion, whether it is on a stage or in a song.

Country Music crosses genres and touches people with stories that speak to the heart and performances that touch the human spirit.

Country Music is thriving on the talent and creativity of an outstanding group of artists and they are well represented with our nominees, ... These talented performers, musicians, songwriters and producers demonstrate the artistic depth and creativity driving the burgeoning growth of our format. It is an exciting time for Country Music and the 2005 CMA Awards will definitely reflect that in November.

Johnny Cash was not only a giant in our business, but he was one of those guys who had grown to become a cultural icon in America. People associated him with values that I think they held near and dear to their hearts.

Having the CMA Awards in a venue the size of Madison Square Garden allows us to offer the public a chance to attend this very exclusive event.

The interest from the artistic community to be involved this year really demonstrates the excitement about the CMA Awards and overall appeal and universal quality of the format,