FIRST EVER "CMT ARTISTS OF THE YEAR" TO BE HONORED FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3 ON CMT

NASHVILLE - August 25, 2010 - Country music's top artists and celebrities from all facets of entertainment will gather for a glamorous evening filled with star-studded performances, tributes and camaraderie in celebration of the first ever, CMT ARTISTS OF THE YEAR, a 90-minute special premiering Friday, December 3 on CMT. Performers and host to be announced.

CMT ARTISTS OF THE YEAR will recognize five of the year's top acts based on album and download sales, radio airplay, online activity and touring. The evening will also include multiple musical performances from the country world and beyond. Taping in Nashville, CMT ARTISTS OF THE YEAR will take place in an elegant, yet relaxed setting that allows attendees to kick back, cut loose and enjoy the show.

"Make no mistake: This is not an awards show or a competition, but a year-end party on a grand scale," said John Hamlin, senior vice president, music events and talent, CMT. "CMT ARTISTS OF THE YEAR celebrates the artists that made this year a great one for country music. It's their night because it's been their year and they deserve to be wined, dined and entertained like no other evening anywhere else."

CMT ARTISTS OF THE YEAR is produced by Audrey Morrissey and Chad Hines. John Hamlin and Margaret Comeaux serve as executive producers for CMT.

CMT, a unit of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), is the leading television and digital authority on country music and entertainment, reaching more than 91 million homes in the U.S. CMT and its website, CMT.com, offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand. The network's digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT VOD.