CMA Honors Dwight Yoakam With International Artist Achievement Award

NASHVILLE, TN. (Top40 Charts/ CMA) - Dwight Yoakam, celebrated worldwide as a singer/songwriter and exponent of the "Bakersfield Sound," received special recognition for his contributions to Country Music, as representatives of CMA and the BBC presented him with CMA's International Artist Achievement Award during pre-televised festivities leading up to "The 41st Annual CMA Awards" Wednesday at the Sommet Center in Nashville.

"Well, I've been very fortunate," said Yoakam. "I had great support from Warner Bros. Records throughout the world when we broke. They were very aware that to keep Country Music growing, they wanted their young artists to continue to go overseas. They were very supportive of that. I think it is incumbent upon the individual artist to sometimes take the economic hit and go overseas. It's expensive to travel. But I've reaped great rewards from having fans all around the world. I was very, very honored that CMA would give me that award tonight."

The International Artist Achievement Award was presented by CMA Chief Executive Officer Tammy Genovese and Mark Hagan, BBC executive producer.

"With Dwight's many interests and talents he has been a tremendous ambassador for this format through his music, his concerts, and his numerous movie and television appearances," said Genovese. "He is an extremely deserving recipient of this honor."

Formerly the International Touring Artist Award, this award recognizes outstanding achievement by an artist who contributes to the awareness and development of Country Music outside North America. Previous winners include Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, Shania Twain, Keith Urban and Trisha Yearwood.

From the beginning of his career, Yoakam has made it a priority to develop an international fan base. Following release of his debut album, Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc., in 1986, he performed in France, Germany, The Netherlands, Scandinavia and the U.K. Five major international tours followed, with Australia, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Switzerland added to his itinerary and highlights including a performance in 1992 before 30,000 fans at one show in Japan.