Bryan earned three awards including the night's top honor, Artist of the Year. Florida Georgia Line took home the most trophies, thanks in large part to their single "Cruise." Shelton also earned several including Album of the Year honors for his release Based on a True Story� and Music Video of the Year for "Sure Be Cool If You Did."

Trace Adkins and NASCAR driver Danica Patrick were the hosts of the show this year. Musical guests included Lady Antebelllum, Jake Owen (performing with ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons), Sheryl Crow with Darius Rucker, and LeAnn Rimes, who performed a knockout medley in tribute to Patsy Cline, who died in a plane crash 50 years ago.