In a number of ways, George Strait was the highlight of Friday night’s Country Music Awards.

During Wednesday’s CMAs, the renowned vocalist, often referred to as the “King of Country Music,” received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award.

Stars including Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert, Jamey Johnson, Park McCollum, and Lainey Wilson, who took home the night’s performer of the year award, performed Strait’s hits as part of the celebration. Wilson sang “Amarillo By Morning,” Johnson sang “Give It Away,” Lambert and McCollum performed “Troubadour,” and Stapleton joined the king himself for “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame.”

The singer of “Troubador” thanked the wonderful musicians who had played some of his songs during his acceptance speech. It’s truly amazing to hear all of you perform these songs. I’m glad that I received them before you did.

As he watched, Strait also praised his family, which included his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. He remarked, “It’s wonderful to have you all here, but especially Norma, his wife, who has been there for me for almost 53 years.”

Strait had an exceptionally long career. The 72-year-old performer smashed the record for the most tickets sold at an event in the United States in June.

Despite the pop-centricity of the industry, his approach has remained rather consistent throughout time. When some admirers resorted to social media to comment on his alleged response to the performances at the award presentation, they evoked the vintage worn-leather look.

Some interpreted his unwavering visage throughout the tribute as a rejection of the contemporary tone of country music. However, who knows?