Jackie Venson to Play Guitar With Alanis Morissette at the CMT Music Awards on Sunday

Jackie Venson played the Austin Music Awards at Mohawk on February 26 (Photo by Jana Birchum)

Following decades in Nashville, the CMT Music Awards take over the Moody Center for the first time this Sunday, April 2. (Revisit our interview with producer Margaret Comeaux on the show’s Austin relocation here.)

Alongside performers like Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, and Keith Urban, the latest lineup announcement includes a notable hometown name. Austin native Jackie Venson will play guitar during a Sunday awards show set by famed singer-songwriter Alanis Morissette. The performance of “You Oughta Know” will also include the artists Ingrid Andress, Lainey Wilson, Madeline Edwards, and Morgan Wade in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the CMT Next Women of Country franchise.

Following a completely-sold-out January residency at Antone’s, 33-year-old Venson headlined the Chronicle’s Austin Music Awards in February. Her latest release, Evolution of Joy, re-recorded full-band versions of her impactful bluesy originals from the 2019 album Joy.

The women-focused programming announcement also promises an onstage collaboration between Gwen Stefani and Carly Pierce, as well as Shania Twain’s acceptance of the third-ever “CMT Equal Play Award” for elevating underrepresented voices in country music. Fans can watch along live on CBS, from 7 - 10pm on Sunday, or purchase still-available tickets to attend in person, starting around $230. Find the full list of announced CMT Music Awards performers here.

This week also offers a number of free opportunities for locals. Fans can register here to attend a special taping of “CMT Hot 20 Countdown: Live in Austin” on Wednesday, March 29 with appearances by CMT Music Awards co-hosts Kelsea Ballerini and Kane Brown, Russell Dickerson, and Lonestar. On this Eventbrite page, Austin fans can RSVP to attend outdoor tapings with Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, and more on Wednesday, March 29; the Black Crowes and Darius Rucker on Friday, March 31; and Nate Smith, Jackson Dean, Lily Rose, Megan Moroney, and more on Saturday, April 1.

With no pre-registration required, the CMT Block Party takes place on Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2 from noon - 4pm at Congress Ave. & W 9th St. Hosted by CBS Austin’s Trevor Scott, the party includes “live music, artist meet-and-greets, free swag, games, and multiple chances to win tickets” to the award show. Saturday includes all-day spinning by DJ Cassandra and performances by Hannah Ellis, Matt Koziol, and William Clark Green.