At the prestigious CMA Awards 2024, one performance stood out above the rest: Ashley McBryde’s powerful rendition of “Help Me Make It Through the Night”, a classic written by country music legend Kris Kristofferson. Her emotional delivery left the live audience — and millions of viewers at home — deeply moved.
A heartfelt tribute to a songwriting icon
In a time when the music world is honoring the life and legacy of Kris Kristofferson, McBryde took the stage in Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena and performed the timeless ballad with raw vulnerability and deep respect.
“Help Me Make It Through the Night”, originally released in 1970, remains one of Kristofferson’s most iconic works. While it has been covered by numerous artists over the decades, Ashley McBryde’s version was hauntingly personal and spiritually resonant.
“This song isn’t just lyrics — it’s a prayer,” one fan commented on TikTok.
“Ashley delivered it straight from the soul.”
Emotional reactions from the audience and fans
The crowd at the CMA Awards rose to their feet almost immediately. Tears flowed, and silence filled the room as Ashley sang each word with reverence.
On social media, the performance went instantly viral, with fans across TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) reacting with overwhelming emotion:
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“Kris Kristofferson would’ve been proud. This was pure magic.”
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“I cried the whole way through. Thank you, Ashley.”
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“This wasn’t just a song. It was a moment of healing.”
Who is Kris Kristofferson — and why this tribute matters
Kris Kristofferson is a legendary singer-songwriter, actor, and poet whose works include “Me and Bobby McGee”, “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down”, and “For the Good Times.” A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, he retired from public life due to health issues, but his influence continues to echo through every artist he inspired.
With this performance, Ashley McBryde honored not only his music but his enduring spirit — and reminded everyone why his songs still matter.
Watch Video: Ashley McBryde – “Help Me Make It Through the Night” (CMA 2024)
Watch the full performance:
Conclusion
Ashley McBryde didn’t just perform — she connected. Her version of “Help Me Make It Through the Night” reminded the world why Kris Kristofferson’s words are timeless.
In an industry often focused on production, Ashley brought it back to the heart, proving that one voice, one guitar, and one true feeling can still shake an entire room.
