Jack White, Kid Rock and More Tribute Loretta Lynn

"Nobody tells it quite like Loretta," said White, who produced, played and sang on Lynn's 2004 Grammy-winning album, Van Lear Rose. "She's an absolute genius. Every word is from her heart. She is the greatest female singer/songwriter of the 20th century. She championed women's rights in the South and for women everywhere."

Academy president and chief executive Neil Portnow presented Lynn with their Merit Award, reminding the audience that Lynn made her Grand Ole Opry debut nearly 50 years ago. There were plenty of musical tributes, too. Kid Rock and Gretchen Wilson teamed up for "You're the Reason Our Kids are Ugly," a hit for Lynn and Conway Twitty in the '70s. McBride sang "You Ain't Good Enough to Take My Man" and McEntire delivered "If You're Not Gone Too Long," in addition to serving as the night's host. - more on this story

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