Association of Country Entertainers

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The Nashville-based Country Musicians Association ACE was formed in November 1974 by leading country musicians out of a spontaneous annoyance. The occasion was the award of pop singer Olivia Newton-John as Country Performer of the Year. The declared aim of the ACE was to return country music to its traditional roots and to reverse the trend towards pop music.

The driving forces were George Jones and his then-wife, Tammy Wynette , who also held the first meeting in their house. Other leading roles included Grandpa Jones , Barbara Mandrell , Bill Anderson and George Morgan . Only established musicians were admitted as members. Producers, agents or publicists were excluded.

The Association of Country Entertainers only existed for a few years. Although supported by many stars, the intended goals could not be achieved. One important reason was that the radio stations only half-heartedly supported the efforts of the ACE and continued to broadcast country pop unabated . The ACE disbanded in 1981.