Award Criteria

This Award, unlike Single of the Year, goes to the songwriter(s) and recognizes artistic achievement in songwriting. Any Country Music song with original words and music is eligible based upon the song’s activity during the eligibility period.

Songs that have previously appeared on a Final Ballot in this category are ineligible.

New for 2025, the Nomination and Second Rounds of voting will be limited to members in the Composer, Artist, Musician, Producer/Engineer/Studio, and Publisher/PRO categories of Membership. All CMA Members will be eligible to vote in the Final Round.