Jason Aldean received his first No. 1 record for "Why" shortly before the start of the CMA Music Festival. While No. 1 parties are usually for executives and label folk, Jason wanted to invite the fans to his party, to help him celebrate not only his first No. 1, but also his CMA New Male Vocalist win.
The party was held at The Mystic, in downtown Nashville, and started around 4:30 pm. Fans and media entered the darkened club to find a small stage with a few tables and chairs, and a little further back, the bar, and some additional high tables with bar stools facing the stage.
Jason's band played for a bit before Jason came on stage to start his acoustic set. He opened with his next single, "Amarillo Sky," then played his first single, "Hicktown," and ended with the song of the hour, "Why." From there he signed some autographs for the fans, then left the stage to attend the actual No. 1 event.
We made our way into the rear room to find another stage and placque upon placque leaning against the walls waiting to be given out. After a short bit, the Owner and CEO of Broken Bow Records took the stage and called up Jason and the three songwriters, John Rich, Vicky McGehee and Rodney Clawson. They each received plaques. Then, they posed for photos with the press.
This went on, with various others receiving plaques, such as publishing company, Jason's band, the writers again, the producer, and BMI also handed out awards, as did R&R, the CMA, Country Radio Broadcasters and Country Weekly.
All in all, it was really an interesting event. My first time at anyone's No. 1 party, and I was so happy for Jason. It's a well-deserved award.
