The 2012 CMT Music Awards began with a batch of country and pop collaborations before settling into a Nashville-based broadcast, featuring Music City’s best. Rascal Flatts closed the show with one of the all-time greatest mainstream rock bands however, inviting Journey on stage to sing ‘Don’t Stop Believin’.’

Prior to the show, Gary LeVox, Joe Don Rooney and Jay DeMarcus talked about how big of a treat it was to be taking the stage with their boyhood idols. One need not look further than Rooney’s V-shaped guitar to see the 80s influence. These days, Arnel Pineda fronts the rock group instead of Steve Perry, but the sound is mostly the same due to Neal Schon’s guitar work. Fans were treated to a long solo halfway through the song.

Artists like Jake Owen loved it. He was seen on multiple occasions singing along with his new bride Lacey Buchanan.

Toby Keith introduced the Flatts, who began their performance by singing their recent hit song ‘Banjo.’ Ashley Campbell was featured heavily during the song. She was the blonde in the red mini-dress that spent so much time on camera. She’s also the daughter of Glen Campbell.

As the credits rolled, a hail storm of sparks fell from the roof of the Bridgestone Arena. It’s possible that the crowd may still be cheering.

Watch Rascal Flatts and Journey Perform at the 2012 CMT Music Awards

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