The 59th Annual CMA Awards lights up Nashville on November 19, 2025. With host Lainey Wilson at the helm, leading nominees like herself, Ella Langley and Megan Moroney each scoring six nods, and country legend Vince Gill set to receive the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, the night promises star-studded performances, emotional tributes and major industry moments. Here’s your complete guide to what’s happening, who’s showing up, how to tune in — and why this year feels bigger than ever.
What is the CMA Awards?
The CMA Awards, presented by the Country Music Association, crown the best in country music — spotlighting artists, songs, albums, videos and more from the previous year. It’s a major moment for the genre: think of it as the Super Bowl of country music. This year marks the 59th edition, and the energy is high.
Date, Time & Where to Watch
- Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
- Venue: Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena
- Broadcast: Live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT
- Streaming (next day): Available on Hulu (and affiliated platforms)
- Pre-show coverage: Red-carpet begins around 5 p.m. ET
Make sure to tune in early if you want behind-the-scenes, fashion glimpses and arrival moments.
Who’s Hosting?
Lainey Wilson returns as host — solo this time, which is a big deal. She previously co-hosted, but this year she’s taking full charge. At 33, she embodies the new wave of country stars: bold, confident and comfortable in the spotlight. She even said she used to watch the CMAs like it was the Super Bowl — and now she’s hosting it.
Top Nominees to Know
This year’s nominations lean female-heavy. Leading the pack:
- Ella Langley, Megan Moroney and Lainey Wilson each have six nominations.
- Close behind: Zach Top with five.
- Also on the list: Riley Green and Cody Johnson (four each).
- The top prize — Entertainer of the Year — features heavyweights: Wilson, Luke Combs, Stapleton, Morgan Wallen and Johnson.
Those names will dominate the red carpet, stage and social chatter.
Performances & Presenters to Watch
Performers this year cover a wide span of country’s sound — from modern pop-country crossover to classic roots. Among the highlights:
- New voices: Ella Langley performing her viral hit “Choosin’ Texas” and Megan Moroney delivering “6 Months Later.”
- Genre mash-ups: Luke Combs teaming with rapper BigXthaPlug for “Pray Hard,” Shaboozey + Wilson performing their ballad.
- Legends & collaborations: Kelsea Ballerini, Keith Urban, Brandi Carlile, Little Big Town, Patty Loveless among others.
- Presenters: Elizabeth Hurley, Steve Martin, Lady A, Ne-Yo, Jordan Davis and Lara Spencer will all take the stage.
It’s a mix of star power, genre-bending acts and big moments.
The Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award
One of the night’s biggest emotional moments comes when Vince Gill is honored with the CMA’s prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. With 18 CMA wins, 22 Grammy Awards and more than 30 million records sold, Gill’s career spans decades and influences across generations. His tribute performance will be a touchpoint of the evening.
What’s New or Different This Year
- A solo female host: Only the third time in CMA history a woman fronts the show on her own.
- A shift toward newer artists: The category leaders this year include breakout stars, not just long-time veterans.
- Streaming and multi-platform reach: With next-day streaming and red-carpet coverage starting early, access is broader than ever.
- Genre fluidity: The inclusion of rap collaborations and crossover acts show country’s ongoing expansion.
Why This Night Matters
- Recognition & momentum: Winning or even being nominated can be a career changer for newer artists.
- Cultural snapshot: The CMA reflects where country music is now — who’s rising, who’s evolving, what the sound is.
- Honoring legacy and change: With Vince Gill’s tribute, this year balances tradition and transformation.
- Audience reach: The show still draws big TV and streaming numbers — and for country music’s popularity, that visibility matters.
What to Follow Live
- Will Lainey Wilson win Entertainer of the Year while hosting?
- Will one of the breakout stars (Langley or Moroney) break through with major awards?
- What unconventional collaborations will steal the spotlight?
- How emotional or show-stopping will Vince Gill’s tribute be?
- Will any surprises (snubs, upset wins, viral moments) emerge?
Need-to-Know Checklist
- Tune in at 8 p.m. ET on ABC on Nov 19, 2025.
- Have Hulu ready for next-day streaming.
- Follow red-carpet from 5 p.m. ET for early arrivals and fashion moments.
- Keep an eye on nominee lists: Wilson, Langley, Moroney lead the pack.
- Brace for a big night of genre crossovers, tributes and new talent.
Also Read : Gracie Hunt Backs TPUSA’s Alternative Super Bowl Halftime Show Over Bad Bunny
FAQ
Q: What date and time are the 2025 CMA Awards?
A: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT.
Q: Who is hosting this year’s show?
A: Lainey Wilson returns as the solo host for the evening.
Q: Who leads in nominations this year?
A: Ella Langley, Megan Moroney and Lainey Wilson each have six nominations.
Q: How can I watch it?
A: Live on ABC. Next-day streaming on Hulu. Pre-show red carpet starts around 5 p.m. ET.
Q: Is there a major lifetime achievement award this year?
A: Yes — Vince Gill will receive the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award.
Q: What are some of the performances to watch?
A: Expect performances by Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, Luke Combs (with BigXthaPlug), Kelsea Ballerini, Keith Urban, Patty Loveless and more.
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