Brooks & Dunn surprised Taylor with the award backstage during rehearsals for The 43rd Annual CMA Awards show in Nashville. The award recognizes outstanding achievement by a U.S.-based artist who contributes to the awareness and development of country music outside the United States. "This is beautiful!" said Swift. "Thank you so much! This is an awesome way to start the day!" In particular, Taylor's second album Fearless has made a huge impact in the overseas market, achieving gold and platinum status in 14 countries. Her single "Love Story" reached No. 1 in Australia and the United Kingdom and Top 5 in the Czech Republic, Ireland and Norway.