The dispute over this year's CMA Awards red carpet is growing, as country singer Rodney Atkins says he was denied access too.
Days after Sammy Kershaw said the Country Music Association turned down his request, Atkins announced Saturday that he was also snubbed after requesting red carpet access. He said he and his wife, singer Rose Falcon, were "denied red-carpet clearance just like Sammy Kershaw," after more than 20 years as a CMA member and many CMA Fests he played for free. The couple decided not to attend this year's awards.
Atkins is known for hits including "Watching You" and "If You're Going Through Hell (Before the Devil Even Knows)."
Kershaw's management said he was denied because the CMA received an overwhelming number of artist requests. The CMA had not publicly responded to either artist's comments as of Saturday. Kershaw's manager has hinted at new developments next week.
Mark Chesnutt also weighed in on social media, and Riley Green had already voiced support for Kershaw. The CMA Awards are set for Nov. 18 in Nashville, and this year's show is planning a tribute to '90s country.
Related article: "Hurtful, Embarrassing": Sammy Kershaw Says CMA Denied His Red Carpet Request
