Garth Brooks has had an outstanding year back in the spotlight, so it’s no surprise the 2016 CMA Award for Entertainer of the Year is going home with him. The legendary artist was presented the most anticipated award of the night by Taylor Swift, who returned to her home of country music to celebrate the CMA’s 50th anniversary.

Swift commented on the influence of all five nominees on her career — Brooks, Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Chris Stapleton — then presented the trophy to Brooks.

Brooks thanked all of the people involved with his extensive world tour, which has brought in millions of dollars for the artist over the last 18 months. He also expressed, of course, his love for his wife and tourmate Trisha Yearwood.

“Thank you to the coolest touring mate you could ever ask for, the love of my life, the breath I breathe in and out,” he said to his wife, later adding, “It could not have been any better for me — I get to take you home."

He couldn’t get off stage at the 50th annual CMAs without paying tribute to the genre he loves, of course, and expressing his gratitude for the country family. “We are so damn lucky to be a part of this thing we call country music!” Brooks declared as he signed off.

Brooks and Yearwood performed at the ceremony earlier in the night, paying tribute to some of the great duets of country music over the years.

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