Lady A’s Charles Kelley to Replace Lee Brice for Carly Pearce Duet at CMA Awards

After Lee Brice announced that he would be unable to perform “I Hope You’re Happy Now” with Carly Pearce at the 2020 CMA Awards, due to a positive COVID-19 testLady A‘s Charles Kelley has stepped up to replace him. Charles will now sing with Carly on the No.1 song during the live ceremony. “I Hope You’re Happy Now” received a total of three CMA nods: for Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year, and Musical Event of the Year.

Additionally, Chris Stapleton has been added to the long list of performers. The two-time nominee will perform his new single, “Starting Over.”

The first round of presenters for the 2020 CMA Awards has also been announced. Thomas Rhett’s wife, Lauren Akins, will present, along with Lauren Alaina, Bobby Bones, Charles Esten, Sara Evans, supermodel Taylor Hill, Jake Owen, Patrick Schwarzenegger and gospel artist CeCe Winans.

Miranda Lambert tops the list of artists with the most nominations, with seven, including for Female Vocalist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year. She is followed by Luke Combs, with six nods; Maren Morris, with five nods; and Dan + Shay, producer Jay Joyce and Carly, who have four nods each.

Previously-announced performers include Luke Combs, Lady A,  Rascal Flatts, Gabby Barrett featuring Charlie Puth, Eric Church,  Florida Georgia LineMirandaAshley McBryde, Maren, and Thomas Rhett with Reba McEntireHillary Scott and Chris Tomlin.

Reba and Darius Rucker will host the 2020 CMA Awards, which will be virtual this year, although the artists will be in the same room for the live broadcast. The 2020 CMA Awards will take place on Wednesday, November 11, at 8:00 PM ET on ABC.