Last Nov. 8 at the CMAs, Garth Brooks — who recently earned his first Billboard Hot 100 hit in 10 years with “Ask Me How I Know” — was awarded the entertainer of the year award and received praise by hosts Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley, who referred to him as the “brightest start in the room.” Following his win, Brooks took time to talk to Billboard about what it means to win this award, after decades of thriving as one of the country’s biggest superstars.

Brooks’ speech focused on the importance of family, both biological and musical, that have been instrumental in his success. He finished his speech thanking his wife of 12 years, Trisha Yearwood: “Ms. Yearwood, I am yours forever.”