The amazing part here is that:

a) The IBMA's came so close to getting it right, and
b) that Stacy only had one thing to say

You've got to give Rhonda credit--she's had a big year for someone that's not enjoying "cross-over" money (like Alison, Ricky, etc.). With a live CD, a live DVD, and videos in frequent rotation on bluegrass/alt.country shows, she's made a respectable showing...and on a bluegrass budget, to boot. And you can't neglect a crazy touring schedule.

The IBMAs are voted on by the "Professional Membership" which means that you can vote (for $65) or hell, your whole band can vote for $150. This means that those selecting the winners are, for the most part, an amalgam of lesser-known and unknown bluegrass musicians. To say that these folks might withhold a vote for an amazing talent that's getting plenty of airplay/attention/financial reward, well, it might be understandable.

Some of the bigger disappointments, for me anyway, were Mike Bub as bass player of the year and Larry Sparks' "40" as recorded event of the year.

Don't get me wrong, here -- I really like Mike Bub. But come on...this award was given to him as a "going away" present (he quit the Del McCoury band this summer). And I worship Larry Sparks, and I think "40" deserved album of the year awards (if you haven't heard 'Georgia Peaches', stop here and go buy it -- classic bluegrass in the making), but the Moody Bluegrass project was an absolute "event" which resulted in some great music, a follow-on concert, and a new contingent of bluegrass listeneners (courtesy Moody Blues' support). I'm not even a Moody Blues fan, but the musicianship and arrangements were impeccable.

So yes, Alison is a better vocalist than Rhonda. But for us don't-get-outta-the-house-much bluegrass-types, Alison doesn't need our support anymore.

Plus, Rhonda's showing more skin these days...

Had some beers with Wayne Brezinka at the AMA conference, he is just simply the best. Huge talent, loves the music, and he's a thoroughly decent guy on top of it all. Good goin', Wayne, congratulations!

Point taken, Shane. I feel better when I think of it that way, I guess. I have this long-standing opinion, though, that Rhonda Vincent is waaaaaay over-rated. And I like her, don't get me wrong! I'm not saying she's not highly talented! But is she living up to her hype? In my opinion, not so much. Alison Krauss is extremely, extremely hyped, but she also meets up to it -- usually exceeds even hyped expectations. So I don't begrudge her the spotlight so much, even though I do think there's room to share ...