New Artist of the Year Megan Moroney, 27, Criticized for CMA Performance — Video

The rising country star’s milestone win at a recent music event should have been a night of pure celebration, but her live performance quickly sparked conversation and controversy.

On Wednesday, November 20, the 58th annual CMA Awards took place in Nashville, Tennessee. The evening saw Megan Moroney crowned as the New Artist of the Year. Moroney, nominated in three categories, delivered a performance of her anthem title track, “Am I Okay?” from her latest album during the event. However, her performance ignited mixed reactions, with many fans voicing their disappointment online.

The CMA Awards’ official Instagram page celebrated her victory with the post, “I think we’re really happy, and I think that we are better than okay. @MegMoroney is the #CMAawards New Artist of the Year 💙.”

Her stage presence was equally acknowledged with another post accompanying a short clip of her performance, stating, “OH MY GOD, WE ARE NOT OKAY! @MegMoroney has all of us dancing around right now after that performance on the #CMAawards stage 💙.”

The 27-year-old singer-songwriter took the stage in a shimmering mini gown with a full skirt and white cowboy boots. Her blonde hair flowed in voluminous waves, completing her glamorous country-inspired look.

Despite her recognition as the New Artist of the Year, Moroney’s live performance was met with criticism. Fans took to social media to share their thoughts, and many did not hold back. One user wrote, “Always sounds so bad live. And I really like her. No range.” Another shared, “Love her but I was disappointed.”

Some questioned the quality of her performance, with a fan asking, “Is Megan Moroney sick?! I remember her performing so much better when I saw her perform live.”

Other comments reflected frustration. One viewer noted, “Good lord. Why is Megan Moroney singing live[?] That was absolutely atrocious,” while another remarked, “I thought it was Barbie in cowboy boots who couldn’t sing.”