Nashville’s BMI Troubadour Award ceremony turned into one of the most memorable nights of the year Monday, as Sheryl Crow was honored by some of the biggest names in country and roots music. Jason Isbell, Melissa Etheridge, Eric Church, Chris Stapleton, and Lauren Daigle all took the stage to perform Crow’s songs, but it was a surprise appearance by Olivia Rodrigo that had the room on its feet. Rodrigo covered“Strong Enough”from Crow’s 1993 debut album and shared what Crow’s heart, kindness, and generosity have meant to her.
The tribute comes at a busy time for Crow. Her 13th studio album,“Pick You Up,”arrives October 9 on her own label. The record includes the politically charged single“Freedom Bus”featuring Jesse Welles, a song Crow says was inspired by a visit to Arlington National Cemetery that she simply couldn’t shake. It’s another example of the honest, from-the-gut songwriting that has defined her career since the early’90s.
Nights like this remind us that country music, and American music as a whole, is at its best when generations share the same stage. From Eric Church to Olivia Rodrigo, the respect in that room was real. Which Sheryl Crow song means the most to you, and which younger artist would you love to hear cover it?
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
