Convincing Kevin Costner to host the CMT Artists of the Year event wasn’t easy.

Kevin told the producer “no.” And, then, “no,” again. He says “a lot of nerves go with something like this.” And, he didn’t see himself as a natural-born host. So, he didn’t say “yes” until the show’s producer sat him down and brought up Kevin’s country band, Modern West.

Kevin says “it happened because of the music” and not because of any desire to host show. Though his band hasn’t received the fame that the artists on the CMT special have, he says he does understand what it takes to get there. He says it’s “hard work, getting up early, traveling, doing interviews, and so, in a way, it’s not really glitzy.”

The first “CMT Artists of the Year” honored Jason Aldean, Lady Antebellum, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood and Zac Brown Band. It will replay mid-day today, tomorrow and on Christmas.  You can also watch the entire show online at CMT.com.

Country Girl wants you to be a Tattle Tale! Have you been to a country concert lately? Run into a country artist while out on the town? We want to hear all about your country music news and entertainment. Email me at countrygirl@countrymusictattletale.com