The evening was devoted to songwriters, with top Music Row composer Ashley Gorley taking two of the top awards, Songwriter of the Year and Country Song of the Year for "You're Gonna Miss This," recorded by Trace Adkins. The award show also honored the songs which received significant airplay on country radio stations throughout the year. Performances included Alan on "Good Time" and Ashley singing "You're Gonna Miss This." Golden Note Award winner J.D. Souther, who penned several hits by the Eagles, including "Best of My Love" and "New Kid in Town," was honored with performances of his classic tunes by Lee Ann Womack, Rodney Crowell and Love and Theft.