After walking away from the 2018 CMA Awards without a single win in any of the four categories in which they were nominated, a bit of disappointment from Dan + Shay would be understandable. In an Instagram post, Dan Smyers admits that it took him a day to absorb everything and come back around to feeling grateful.

"As artists, we pour our hearts and souls into creating music, and we become very emotionally sensitive to judgment, especially when it is as public as a nationally televised awards show," Smyers shares on Instagram, his words accompanied by a video clip of the dramatic closing moment of his and Shay Mooney's stellar rendition of their song "Tequila" from the show. "When it doesn’t go our way, we tend to lose perspective of the things that do go our way."

Smyers and Mooney were nominated for Single of the Year, Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year and Vocal Duo of the Year at the 2018 CMA Awards. Even Vocal Duo winners Brothers Osborne thought Dan + Shay had that category on lock!

"I spent the day allowing myself to be sad (I’m human)," Smyers says, "but now, I’m reflecting upon what an incredible year it has been, surrounded by equally as incredible people."

Smyers says he draws motivation to work harder and stay in the fight from the music that he and Mooney make. "Like we say in the song "Keeping Score," I’m trying to better myself by appreciating the moment, and spending less time comparing myself to others," he writes. "I’m proud of what we and our team have accomplished in 2018, and will work even harder for our fans in 2019. And I’m also proud that I get to stand on stage with the best singer in the world (@shaymooney)."

"Much love to all who have been there for us on this journey," Smyers concludes. "We’re just getting started."

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