NASHVILLE — Music veteran Sammy Kershaw said that he accepted an apology and a red carpet invite after the Country Music Association denied his request to walk the red carpet at the upcoming CMA Awards.

In a post shared on social media, the 1990s hitmaker initially revealed that he and his wife, Mendy, had cleared touring dates, booked flights and reserved hotel accommodations expecting to attend the annual ceremony together, only to receive a rejection just two weeks before showtime.

Following a statement from the CMA, Kershaw posted to social media that the situation made him realize that the situation was about "recognizing and respecting those who dedicated their lives to this music and preserving the history and legacy that makes country music so special," not the red carpet invite.

Kershaw said that he was in talks with CMA leadership over the last few days, saying they have since extended a heartfelt apology. He also said the CMA extended an invitation on the red carpet to Kershaw and his wife.

"My sincere hope is that the conversations we’ve begun with the CMA will lead to lasting change and an even greater appreciation and recognition of our industry’s legacy artists for many years to come," Kershaw said.

Read his full statement below: