Ricky Van Shelton Voted Entertainer of ‘90, Top Male Vocalist

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Ricky Van Shelton was chosen Entertainer of the Year and top male vocalist Monday night at the 24th annual fan-voted TNN-Music City News Country Awards Show.

Randy Travis, who was top entertainer the previous two years, won nothing despite being a finalist in five categories.

“I’m shocked, really shocked,” Shelton said after the ceremony. “I’m really, totally in awe.”

Patty Loveless was named female vocalist of the year, supplanting Reba McEntire, who had won the award five straight years.

“This tells me the people believe in the music I’m doing,” Loveless said.

The Statler Brothers were double winners, winning the vocal group award for the seventh straight time and copping single honors for “More Than a Name on the Wall.”

Hank Williams Jr. and his late father also were double winners, for video and vocal collaboration for “There’s a Tear in My Beer.”

The video combines film of the father with shots of the son.

Rising star Clint Black was honored twice, as Star of Tomorrow and for top album, “Killin’ Time.”

Tennessee Ernie Ford was presented with the Minnie Pearl award for dedication to the music business and humanitarian efforts during a career that has spanned 50 years.

“If I ever felt like a milk bucket under a bull, it’s right now,” the joyous Ford said in accepting the honor.

Veteran Merle Haggard, best known for “Okie From Muskogee,” received the living legend award.

Other winners included: The Judds for vocal duo; Ray Stevens for comedian; Ricky Skaggs for instrumentalist, and The Chuck Wagon Gang for gospel group.