Lainey Wilson

Country star Miranda Lambert says the genre has embraced female artists and become more "balanced." Her comments touch on a long-running debate in Nashville, where women have historically struggled for equal radio play and awards recognition despite headline acts like Lambert, Kacey Musgraves and Lainey Wilson. Reactions are likely to be divided, with some agreeing the industry has improved and others arguing real parity has yet to arrive.

Lainey Wilson leads the honorees at the CMA International Awards, where she was recognized for helping expand country music's reach around the world. The Country Music Association's international honors spotlight artists and industry figures who have grown the genre's audience outside the United States, with Wilson's global success making her the standout name on this year's list.