Megan Moroney Recalls Interning for Kristian Bush as She Accepts New Artist of the Year at the 2024 CMAs

Megan Moroney, the rising country star, took home the CMA Award for New Artist of the Year at the 2024 CMAs, held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday. In an emotional acceptance speech, the 27-year-old singer expressed her gratitude and remembered those who helped shape her journey, including Kristian Bush of Sugarland.

Megan Moroney’s Big Night at the CMAs

During the 2024 CMA Awards, Moroney was nominated alongside other country music talents such as Shaboozey, Nate Smith, Mitchell Tenpenny, Zach Top, and Bailey Zimmerman. Moroney, known for hits like “Tennessee Orange” and “Am I Okay?”, was visibly moved as she accepted her prestigious award.

“I just want to get through this without crying,” Moroney said, her voice shaking with emotion. She thanked Jesus for placing the dream of a music career in her heart and expressed deep appreciation for the gift of songwriting.

Thanking Her Fans and Team

Moroney continued by dedicating her award to her loyal fans, highlighting the support they’ve shown her. “This is for my fans,” she said. “They’re a large reason why I’m up here right now. The way they show up for me, care about my songs, and make signs and T-shirts… it’s insane to me.”

She also gave a heartfelt shout-out to her incredible team, including her managers and record labels: Columbia Records and Sony Music Nashville.

A Special Connection to Kristian Bush

In her speech, Moroney shared a touching moment about her deep connection with Kristian Bush, who produced her two albums, Lucky and Am I Okay?. “Thank you for letting me be your intern at the University of Georgia so many years ago,” she said to Bush, before adding a fun reference to their shared alma mater with a “Go, Dawgs!”

Their professional relationship dates back to Moroney’s time as an intern for Bush at the University of Georgia’s music business program, where she worked with him and his brother Brandon. Reflecting on that experience, Moroney revealed, “I grew up a Sugarland fan” and admitted to not revealing her music aspirations back then. “I literally walked in and saw a Grammy on the wall, and I was like, ‘OK, I’m shutting up,’” she said.

Their creative partnership has since blossomed, with Bush playing a key role in Moroney’s music career, especially as she released her sophomore album Am I Okay? in July 2024.

Megan Moroney’s Career Achievements

In addition to New Artist of the Year, Moroney earned three nominations at the 2024 CMAs: Female Vocalist of the Year, Music Video of the Year (for “I’m Not Pretty”), and New Artist of the Year. This marks her second consecutive year as a nominee for the New Artist category. Over the years, she’s earned five CMA nominations, a remarkable achievement for the young star.

Moroney’s success is not just about the awards; it’s also about the personal connections she’s built and the creative partnerships that continue to shape her sound.

Upcoming Projects

In October 2024, Moroney followed up her Am I Okay? album with the deluxe edition, Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine). Her musical journey is just beginning, and with the support of her fans, her team, and her mentor Kristian Bush, Moroney is poised to continue making waves in the country music world.

Final Thoughts: Megan Moroney’s victory at the 2024 CMAs is a testament to her hard work, determination, and the supportive relationships she’s built in the country music industry. As her career continues to rise, fans and industry experts alike will be watching to see where her musical journey takes her next.