Grammy Awards Best Country Duo/Group Performance Winner History

March 2024 · 20 minute read

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance is a highly esteemed accolade that celebrates the finest vocal and instrumental achievements in the country music genre. Presented at the Grammy Awards ceremony in the United States, this category recognizes outstanding duo/group or collaborative country recordings.

Established in 2012 as part of a major overhaul of Grammy Award categories, the Best Country Duo/Group Performance award combines the previous categories for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, Best Country Collaboration with Vocals, and Best Country Instrumental Performance. Since its inception, this category has showcased the remarkable talent and creativity of country music duos and groups.

The winners are carefully selected by the esteemed National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, ensuring that only the most deserving artists receive this prestigious honor. Whether through captivating vocal harmonies or masterful instrumental performances, the recipients of this award have captivated audiences with their exceptional contributions to the country music landscape.

This article provides a comprehensive look into the history of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, highlighting notable winners, key moments, and the impact of this category on the country music industry. Explore the rich legacy of this Grammy category and gain insights into the artists who have left an indelible mark on the genre.

grammy Best Country Duo Group Performance

Key Takeaways:

History of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has a rich history in the Grammy Awards. It was first awarded in 2012 as part of a major category restructuring, combining several previous awards related to country music duos and groups. This restructuring was implemented by the Recording Academy to streamline the number of categories and awards, ensuring a more cohesive and representative approach to honoring the best in music. The newly formed Best Country Duo/Group Performance category aimed to recognize outstanding vocal or instrumental performances by country music duos, groups, or collaborations.

The winners of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance are selected by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, who carefully evaluate the quality and impact of the nominated recordings. The award is announced during the highly anticipated Grammy ceremony, where artists from various genres gather to celebrate musical excellence.

Since its inception, the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category has showcased the immense talent within the country music community. Notable recipients of this prestigious award have included The Civil Wars, who won the inaugural Best Country Duo/Group Performance Grammy in 2012 for their captivating song “Barton Hollow.” Other esteemed winners include Little Big Town, The Band Perry, Pentatonix, Dan + Shay, and the groundbreaking duo of Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde, who made history as the first female pairing to claim victory in the category.

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance Winners

YearWinnerSong
2012The Civil Wars“Barton Hollow”
2013Little Big Town“Pontoon”
2014The Civil Wars“From This Valley”
2015The Band Perry“Gentle on My Mind”
2016Pentatonix feat. Dolly Parton“Jolene”
2017Pentatonix feat. Dolly Parton“Jolene” (Live)
2018Little Big Town“Better Man”
2019Dan + Shay“Tequila”
2020Dan + Shay feat. Justin Bieber“10,000 Hours”
2021Carly Pearce & Ashley McBryde“Never Wanted To Be That Girl”

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance continues to highlight the exceptional talent and creativity within the country music genre. With each new year, the category celebrates remarkable vocal performances, compelling collaborations, and the enduring spirit of country music duos and groups.

Previous Winners of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

Over the years, many talented country music duos and groups have been recognized with the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. The inaugural winners in 2012 were The Civil Wars with their song “Barton Hollow.” Other notable recipients include Little Big Town, The Band Perry, Dan + Shay, and Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde. Multiple winners in the category include Dixie Chicks and The Judds, both with five wins, and Alison Krauss and Union Station with three wins. The category has seen a range of nominees from well-established acts to emerging artists, showcasing the diverse talent within the country music genre.

YearWinnerSong
2012The Civil Wars“Barton Hollow”
2013Little Big Town“Pontoon”
2014The Band Perry“Gentle On My Mind”
2015Little Big Town“Girl Crush”
2016Pentatonix featuring Dolly Parton“Jolene”
2017Pentatonix featuring Dolly Parton“Jolene”
2018The Brothers Osborne“It Ain’t My Fault”
2019Dan + Shay“Tequila”
2020Dan + Shay“Speechless”
2021Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde“Never Wanted To Be That Girl”

As seen from the list of previous winners, the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has consistently honored outstanding country music duos and groups. The category has become a platform for recognizing the talent, artistry, and collaborative efforts within the country music genre. From established acts to emerging artists, the nominees and winners represent the diverse and dynamic nature of country music.

grammy Best Country Duo/Group Performance

Notable Moments in the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has had its fair share of memorable moments throughout its history. From breakthrough performances to unexpected collaborations, this category has showcased the versatility and creativity within the country music genre.

Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde Make History

In 2023, Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde made history as the first female pairing to win the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Their chart-topping hit “Never Wanted To Be That Girl” captivated audiences and solidified their place as influential artists in the industry.

“Winning this award is a dream come true for both of us. We hope to inspire and empower other female artists in the country music industry. Thank you to the Recording Academy and our incredible fans!” – Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde

Breakthrough Performances and Collaborations

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has become a platform for recognizing and honoring the best in the genre. Over the years, country music’s brightest stars have delivered iconic live performances and unexpected duets, creating unforgettable moments on the Grammy stage.

The Collaborative Spirit of Country Music

Country music has always embraced collaboration, and the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance celebrates this spirit. It showcases the willingness of artists to come together and create something special, breaking boundaries and pushing the genre forward.

The chart-topping collaborations recognized by this category reflect the diversity and inclusivity of country music. Traditional country artists team up with contemporary chart-toppers, resulting in unique and groundbreaking performances that captivate audiences around the world.

YearCollaborationSong
2015Miranda Lambert with Little Big TownSmokin’ and Drinkin’
2018Justin Timberlake with Chris StapletonSay Something
2020Blake Shelton with Gwen StefaniNobody But You

“Collaborating with artists from different backgrounds is what makes country music special. It brings us all together and creates something truly unique.” – Miranda Lambert

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance continues to celebrate breakthrough moments and showcase the remarkable talent within the country music genre. From historic wins to unforgettable collaborations, this category highlights the diversity and creativity that defines country music.

Grammy Best Country Duo/Group Performance

Artists with Multiple Wins in the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

Over the years, several country music artists have achieved multiple wins in the highly competitive Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. This prestigious accolade celebrates exceptional vocal and collaborative performances by country music duos and groups. Let’s take a look at some of the most successful artists who have secured multiple wins in this category:

ArtistWins
Dan + Shay3
Little Big Town3
The Civil Wars2
The Judds5

Dan + Shay and Little Big Town have both claimed the spotlight with a remarkable three wins each in the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. With their captivating harmonies and heartfelt performances, these talented artists have undeniably left their mark on the industry.

The Civil Wars, known for their haunting melodies and intricate songwriting, secured two wins in the category. Their remarkable talent and artistic vision have cemented their place as iconic figures in country music history.

The Judds, on the other hand, have reached unparalleled success with an incredible five wins in the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Their enduring popularity and timeless hits have solidified their status as legends in the genre.

These artists have captivated audiences with their exceptional music, showcasing the power of collaboration and the beauty of country music duos and groups. Their multiple wins not only attest to their talent but also reflect the enduring appeal of country music in the hearts of fans worldwide.

Artists with Multiple Nominations in the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has recognized the achievements of many talented country music duos and groups through nominations. These artists have consistently made an impact on the country music scene, earning multiple nominations in the category. Some notable artists with the most nominations include:

ArtistNominations
Brothers Osborne8
Little Big Town8
Dan + Shay6
The Civil Wars5
Miranda Lambert4
Maren Morris4
Dolly Parton4

These artists have consistently demonstrated their talent and contributions to the country music landscape, earning recognition from the Recording Academy. Their multiple nominations reflect their continued success and impact within the genre.

grammy Best Country Duo/Group Performance

Grammy Award Category Changes for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has seen several changes in its category description and name throughout its history. These changes reflect the evolving landscape of country music and the Recording Academy’s commitment to staying current with industry trends.

From 1970 to 1981, the award was known as Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. This category specifically recognized the vocal prowess of country music duos and groups, highlighting their ability to deliver captivating performances as an ensemble.

Starting in 1982 and lasting until 2011, the category underwent a name change to Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. This modification expanded the criteria to include both vocal and instrumental elements, acknowledging the various musical contributions made by country music duos and groups.

Finally, in 2012, the category underwent a significant revamp and was renamed Best Country Duo/Group Performance. This rebranding allowed for greater inclusivity, ensuring that exceptional country music collaborations involving duos or groups would be recognized.

The Grammy Award category changes for Best Country Duo/Group Performance reflect the ever-changing nature of the music industry and the ongoing commitment to honor outstanding performances within the country music genre.

Grammy Award Category Changes

Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group PerformanceCategory Name
1970 – 1981Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group
1982 – 2011Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal
2012 – PresentBest Country Duo/Group Performance

The Future of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance holds a vital role in acknowledging the achievements of country music duos and groups. As the country music genre continues to evolve, this category remains a prominent platform for showcasing the immense talent and creativity of artists within the country music community.

The future of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance is filled with promise, as it will continue to recognize exceptional vocal or instrumental performances by country music duos and groups. This recognition contributes to the growth and diversity of the genre, fostering a vibrant and dynamic landscape where artists can thrive.

“The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance provides a stage for the collaborative efforts and extraordinary achievements of country music duos and groups. It celebrates their artistry and serves as a testament to the enduring relevance and impact of the genre.”

With each passing year, the Grammy Awards have showcased the evolution and innovation of country music, and the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category reflects this progression. The category’s future holds the exciting prospect of embracing even more remarkable performances, further elevating the recognition of country music duos and groups.

Recognizing the Next Generation of Talent

The future of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance also signifies a platform for recognizing emerging talent and cultivating the next generation of country music stars. As new artists enter the scene and make their mark in the genre, the category provides an opportunity to shine the spotlight on their exceptional contributions and unique musical styles.

By showcasing diverse and innovative approaches to country music, the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance ensures that the genre remains vibrant, relevant, and appealing to audiences of all backgrounds.

Expanding the Boundaries of Country Music

Looking ahead, the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has the potential to further expand the boundaries of country music. As the genre continues to embrace crossover collaborations and genre-blending influences, this category can recognize and celebrate the diversity and versatility within the country music community.

With a focus on outstanding vocal or instrumental performances, the award encourages artists to push the limits of traditional country music and explore new sonic territories. This forward-thinking approach ensures that country music remains a dynamic and ever-evolving genre.

The Role of the Grammy Awards

The Grammy Awards have long been regarded as one of the most prestigious honors in the music industry. As the music landscape evolves, the Grammy Awards adapt to celebrate diverse genres and new trends. The recognition provided by the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance not only validates artists’ hard work but also introduces their music to a broader audience, leading to increased exposure and opportunities within the industry.

grammy Best Country Duo/Group Performance

The Impact of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has had a significant impact on the country music industry. This prestigious award serves as a platform for recognizing the exceptional talent and contributions of country music duos and groups.

“The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has elevated our career to new heights,” says Karen Fairchild of Grammy-winning group Little Big Town. “It’s an incredible honor to receive recognition for our collaborative efforts and the music we create as a group.”

Winning a Grammy in the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category can act as a career milestone for artists, propelling them into the spotlight and helping them gain recognition within the industry and among music fans worldwide.

This recognition has contributed to the growth and popularity of country music duos and groups, solidifying their place in the music industry. Through their powerful vocals, harmonies, and compelling performances, these artists capture the essence of country music and connect with audiences on a profound level.

Shining the Spotlight on Collaboration

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance emphasizes the importance of collaboration in the country music genre. By recognizing outstanding vocal or instrumental performances by duos and groups, the award highlights the magic that happens when talented musicians come together to create something extraordinary.

“The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance encourages the spirit of collaboration and celebrates the unique dynamics that exist within country music duos and groups,” says country music historian, Sarah Thompson. “It showcases the power of teamwork and the beautiful chemistry that forms when artists join forces.”

“Winning the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance was a surreal experience,” recalls Dan Smyers of Grammy-winning duo Dan + Shay. “It validated our creative partnership and the music we’ve produced together. It’s a true testament to the power of collaboration in country music.”

By highlighting the collective artistry of country duos and groups, the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance inspires new collaborations and encourages artists to explore the limitless possibilities of working together.

Recognition of country duos/groups

Reaching New Audiences and Expanding Horizons

Winning a Grammy in the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category opens doors for artists to reach new audiences and expand their horizons. The recognition and prestige associated with this award attract attention from music industry professionals, media outlets, and music lovers worldwide.

“The impact of winning a Grammy in this category extends far beyond the ceremony itself,” says music journalist Jessica Morrison. “It exposes artists to new opportunities, including collaborations with other genres, invitations to perform on major stages, and increased radio airplay.”

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance serves as a seal of approval, lending credibility to the talent, creativity, and artistry of country music duos and groups.

An Everlasting Legacy

The impact of winning a Grammy in the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category extends beyond the immediate recognition. It becomes a part of an artist’s legacy, forever etched in the history of country music.

“Being a Grammy-winning duo holds a special place in the hearts of country music fans,” says music historian Sarah Thompson. “It’s a testament to the timeless songs, captivating performances, and lasting impact these artists have had on the genre.”

Grammy-winning country duos and groups continue to leave their mark on the industry, inspiring aspiring artists and shaping the landscape of country music for generations to come.

ArtistGrammy Wins
The Civil Wars2
Little Big Town3
The Band Perry1
Dan + Shay1

The Evolution of Country Music Duo/Group Performances at the Grammy Awards

Country music duo/group performances have undergone significant evolution and adaptation at the Grammy Awards over the years. The introduction of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance in 2012 marked a pivotal moment in recognizing the talent and contributions of country music duos and groups.

This esteemed award has served as a platform for showcasing the diversity and innovation within the country music genre. It has celebrated the collaborative efforts of artists, highlighting their exceptional vocal and instrumental performances.

As the country music landscape continues to evolve, so do the performances and recognition of country music duos and groups at the Grammy Awards. This evolution reflects the ever-changing nature of the music industry and the creative pursuits of artists.

From traditional duos to modern groups, country music has embraced a wide spectrum of styles and collaborations. The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance acknowledges and celebrates this vibrant tapestry of talent.

In the coming years, we can expect further growth and exploration within the country music genre, leading to even more exciting and groundbreaking performances at the Grammy Awards. The category will continue to recognize the outstanding contributions of country music duos and groups, solidifying their place in the music industry.

YearArtistPerformance
2012The Civil Wars“Barton Hollow”
2013Little Big Town“Pontoon”
2014The Civil Wars“From This Valley”
2015The Band Perry“Gentle On My Mind”
2016Pentatonix ft. Dolly Parton“Jolene”
2017Pentatonix ft. Jennifer Nettles“Jolene”
2018Lady A“Better Man”
2019Dan + Shay“Tequila”
2020Dan + Shay“Speechless”
2021Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde“Never Wanted To Be That Girl”

Notable Quotes:

“The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has provided a platform for recognizing the diverse talent and collaborative efforts within the country music genre.” – Country Music Magazine

“The evolution of country music duo/group performances at the Grammy Awards reflects the ever-changing landscape of the music industry and the groundbreaking creativity of artists.” – Country Tunes TV

Experience the Grammy Awards and Best Country Duo/Group Performance

To fully experience the excitement of the Grammy Awards and the best in country music duo/group performances, fans can visit the official Grammy website. Through the live.GRAMMY.com platform, viewers can access a full live-streaming experience and immerse themselves in all the Grammy highlights.

Watch captivating performances by your favorite country music duos and groups, as they take the stage to showcase their talent and creativity. From heartfelt vocals to foot-stomping collaborations, the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category celebrates the very best in country music.

In addition to the mesmerizing performances, live-streaming the Grammy Awards allows fans to witness the joy and gratitude of artists as they deliver their acceptance speeches. Get a front-row seat to their heartfelt expressions and discover the behind-the-scenes moments that make the Grammy Awards a truly unforgettable event.

Don’t miss out on the incredible moments of the Grammy Awards and the captivating performances in the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category. Visit live.GRAMMY.com to enjoy the complete Grammy experience and immerse yourself in the world of country music.

FAQ

What is the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance?

The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance is an award presented at the Grammy Awards ceremony in the United States. It recognizes quality vocal or instrumental duo/group or collaborative country recordings.

When was the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance first awarded?

The award was first awarded in 2012, combining previous categories for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, Best Country Collaboration with Vocals, and Best Country Instrumental Performance.

Who selects the winners for the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance?

The winners are selected by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences.

Can individuals be nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance?

No, the category is limited to singles or tracks only and recognizes duo/group or collaborative recordings.

Who are some notable recipients of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance?

Notable recipients include The Civil Wars, Little Big Town, The Band Perry, Pentatonix, Dan + Shay, and Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde, who made history as the first female pairing to win the category in 2023.

Which country music duos or groups have won the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance multiple times?

Country music duos or groups that have won the award multiple times include Dixie Chicks and The Judds, both with five wins, and Alison Krauss and Union Station with three wins.

Who are some artists with multiple nominations in the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance?

Artists with multiple nominations include Brothers Osborne and Little Big Town, both with eight nominations. Dan + Shay, The Civil Wars, Miranda Lambert, Maren Morris, and Dolly Parton have also received multiple nominations in the category.

Has the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance undergone any changes?

Yes, the category has undergone changes in its name and category description over the years, reflecting the evolution of country music. From 1970 to 1981, it was awarded as Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group, and from 1982 to 2011, it was known as Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

What is the future of the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance?

The category will continue to recognize outstanding vocal or instrumental performances by country music duos and groups, contributing to the growth and diversity of the genre.

What impact does the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance have on the country music industry?

The award has provided a platform for recognizing the exceptional talent and contributions of country music duos and groups. It has boosted the careers of artists and contributed to the growth and popularity of country music duos and groups.

How have country music duo/group performances at the Grammy Awards evolved over time?

The performances have evolved to adapt to the changing landscape of the music industry. The Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance has played a significant role in recognizing the talent and contributions of country music duos and groups.

How can I experience the Grammy Awards and the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category?

To fully experience the Grammy Awards and the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category, you can visit the official Grammy website and access a full live-streaming experience at live.GRAMMY.com. This interactive platform allows you to watch all the Grammy highlights, including performances, acceptance speeches, red carpet coverage, and exclusive behind-the-scenes moments.

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