Garth Brooks took home top honors at Wednesday’s CMAs in Nashville in a star-studded award ceremony that included country music’s most famous acts and a stirring tribute to women artists performed by Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood and Reba McEntire.

With a history-making opening that paid tribute to women in country music, the ladies started the CMAs by singing to Parton’s “Those Memories of You,” before Little Big Town joined Parton on-stage to pay tribute to country music icon Loretta Lynn — who was also in attendance. In 1972, Lynn became the first female to win the Entertainer of the Year award. The dose of girl-power continued with Tanya Tucker also taking the stage to perform “Delta Dawn.” Gretchen Wilson was also on-hand to perform her rowdy “Redneck Woman.” Crystal Gayle, the Highwomen, Sara Evans and more later joined before the group concluded with Martina McBride’s “Independence Day.”

“What a way to kick off country music’s biggest night,” Underwood — who changed into a yellow fringed mini — said after the performances finished. Underwood, 36, also couldn’t help but talk about her co-host, Parton with a joke about the hosts’ dressing room. “For some reason, Dolly’s rack is so much bigger,” the “Cry Pretty” songstress said. “Well Dolly’s rack is so much bigger,” joked Parton.

“You’re ageless and timeless and parts of you are barely legal,” McEntire jokingly added of Parton before noting that tonight the artists are “doing it all for the little girls who are dreaming of ruling the world of country music.” “Or just ruling the world,” said McEntire, 64, who opted for a blue sequined low-cut gown.

“I love a good man… thanks to Brad Paisley for letting us gals doing our thing tonight… we miss you!” said Parton. Blake Shelton, who was accompanied by girlfriend Gwen Stefani, took home the evening’s first award for Single of the Year for his tune “God’s Country.” Meanwhile, Ashley McBride took home the nod for New Artist of the Year.