At the 2024 CMA Awards, Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan delivered a breathtaking live performance of “Cowboys Cry Too,” blending heartfelt country tones with introspective folk elements. The emotional ballad challenges stereotypes of masculinity, portraying men—and cowboys in particular—as fully emotional and complex.
Visually, the performance was striking. Ballerini wore a flowing white dress, while Kahan opted for a sharp blazer paired with jeans, both set against cinematic stage backdrops and subtle smoke effects that enhanced the song’s vulnerability. Their chemistry was undeniable, a product of their shared admiration and previous collaborations, including a medley at the ACM Awards earlier this year.
The song’s lyrics explore breaking societal expectations and embracing emotional honesty—a message both artists are passionate about. Ballerini explained the track honors the emotionally expressive men in her life, and Kahan’s verse added depth, making the song resonate even more with fans. Released earlier this year as the lead single from Ballerini’s album Patterns, the track has already struck a chord with audiences.
More than just a performance, the duet served as a cultural statement, reflecting both artists’ commitment to meaningful storytelling through music. The CMA Awards broadcast highlighted this moment as one of the night’s most memorable, with viewers praising the sincerity, vocal harmony, and powerful message behind “Cowboys Cry Too.”
