Morgan Wallen Shares Thoughts on CMA Awards as I’m the Problem Takes Top Spot on Apple Music

Morgan Wallen in June 2025 in Nashville.
Credit:

Jason Kempin/Getty

Morgan Wallen Subtly Critiques CMA Awards Amid Album Milestone

Morgan Wallen has made headlines following what appears to be a subtle critique of the CMA Awards through a recent social media post. On December 2, Apple Music announced that Wallen’s album I’m the Problem was recognized as the most-streamed album on its platform this year.

In their post, Apple Music highlighted, “I’m The Problem by @morganwallen is the year’s most-listened-to project on Apple Music. What’s your top album? #AppleMusicReplay.” Wallen reshared this announcement on his Instagram Stories, adding a caption that seems directed at the CMA Awards: “I like to let my fans do the talking.”

This commentary comes shortly after Wallen’s absence from the 2025 CMA Awards, where he lost the Entertainer of the Year honor, an award he had previously won in 2024. During that event, he was notably absent again, causing speculation about the reasons for his non-attendance. His friend and collaborator, Ernest, remarked about Wallen’s apparent disinterest in the awards. “He don’t give a f—. Since when has Morgan given a s—?” Ernest stated in an interview prior to the show.

At a recent performance at the Ryman Auditorium, Wallen reiterated his stance, suggesting that awards no longer motivate him. “Yeah, it takes a lot more than an awards show to get me out to Broadway these days, I’ll tell you that,” he said, according to fan footage shared on TikTok.

In 2024, Wallen also skipped the CMA Awards ceremony, albeit that time he won Entertainer of the Year. Actor Jeff Bridges accepted the accolade on his behalf, stating to the audience, “Morgan couldn’t make it tonight, so I’m going to accept this award on his behalf.”

As it stands, Wallen has been the most-nominated artist at recent CMA Awards, yet his continued absence raises questions about his relationship with the event. A representative for Wallen did not respond to requests for comment regarding his recent social media activity or his absence from the 2025 ceremony.