Lainey Wilson is set to make country music history as she returns to host the 59th annual CMA Awards for the second consecutive year, while simultaneously competing for six awards of her own. The bell-bottom-wearing superstar joins Ella Langley and Megan Moroney as the most-nominated artists at this year’s ceremony, signaling what could be a watershed moment for women in country music.
“I grew up watching the CMA Awards like it was the Super Bowl, so to be hosting for a second year is a true honor,” Wilson said in a statement. “I’m humbled that CMA has trusted me with this role, and I can’t wait to love on this genre that has given me so much.”
A Big Night for Women in Country
What’s different about this year’s nominations? For starters, women are dominating the ballot in unprecedented numbers. “Probably a lot of women taking home prizes they deserve! Ella Langley, Megan Moroney and Lainey Wilson lead this year’s nominations with six nods each,” industry insiders have noted.
The top honor of the night, Entertainer of the Year, features Wilson alongside an all-star lineup of male performers: Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, and Morgan Wallen, as confirmed by the CMA.
New talent is also getting its due recognition. The New Artist of the Year category showcases a diverse group of rising stars including Ella Langley, Shaboozey, Zach Top, Tucker Wetmore, and Stephen Wilson Jr. — each bringing their unique sound to Nashville’s evolving landscape.
Celebrating a Legend
Beyond the competitive categories, the ceremony will honor country music royalty as Vince Gill receives the 2025 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. The 22-time Grammy winner will be celebrated with a special tribute performance during the broadcast.
The star-studded performance lineup reflects country music’s expanding boundaries in 2025. Viewers can expect to see sets from established stars like Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, and Miranda Lambert alongside breakthrough artists such as Shaboozey, Ella Langley, and The Red Clay Strays. In an interesting crossover moment, rapper BigXThaPlug is also slated to perform, highlighting country’s growing intersection with other genres.
How to Watch
Country music fans won’t want to miss the excitement. “The 59th annual CMA Awards will be broadcast live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena at 8 p.m. Eastern and 7 p.m. Central on ABC. It will become available to stream the next day on Hulu,” according to official announcements.
With women leading the nominations, a tribute to a country icon, and performances spanning the genre’s evolving sound, this year’s ceremony promises to be more than just an awards show — it’s shaping up to be a statement on where country music stands in 2025 and where it’s headed next.
