The 2025 CMA Awards: Everything You Need To Know About Lainey Wilson's Historic Host Role And The Shocking Nominee List

The 59th Annual Country Music Association Awards are set to electrify Nashville, promising one of the most talked-about nights in the genre's history. Scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the ceremony is already generating massive buzz, not only for the tight races in the major categories but also for a historic change in the hosting lineup. The industry is on the edge of its seat, waiting to see who will take home the coveted Entertainer of the Year trophy and what kind of groundbreaking performances will grace the iconic stage.

As of this current date in December 2025, the full list of nominees and a star-studded lineup of performers have been officially unveiled, confirming the event will once again be held at the legendary Bridgestone Arena. This year’s awards are a powerful statement on the rise of female artists in the industry, with three powerhouse women—Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley, and Megan Moroney—leading the pack with an astonishing six nominations each.

The 59th Annual CMA Awards: Date, Location, and Solo Host Revealed

The Country Music Association (CMA) has locked in the details for country music's biggest night, ensuring the tradition continues in the heart of Music City. The event serves as the pinnacle of the country music calendar, celebrating the best artists, songs, and albums from the past year.

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Event Profile: The 2025 CMA Awards

• Official Event Name: The 59th Annual Country Music Association Awards
• Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
• Location: Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, Tennessee
• Broadcast: Live on ABC (Check local listings for specific airtime)
• Host: Lainey Wilson (Solo Host)
• Leading Nominees: Lainey Wilson (6), Ella Langley (6), Megan Moroney (6)

The biggest story of the night, even before the first award is handed out, is the return of Lainey Wilson as the show's host. Following a successful co-hosting stint last year, Wilson is stepping into the spotlight as the sole emcee for the 59th Annual CMA Awards. This move is a landmark moment, as Lainey Wilson becomes only the third woman in CMA history to serve as a solo host, following in the footsteps of country legends.

Wilson, who is also the night's leading nominee, has teased that her hosting style will be "sassy" and "fiery," promising an energetic and unforgettable evening that will keep the audience entertained between the emotional performances and high-stakes award presentations. Her dual role as host and top contender adds a unique layer of excitement to the entire ceremony.

The Battle for the Crown: Top Nominees and Major Categories

The 2025 CMA Awards nominations reflect a changing guard in country music, with a strong showing from new and established female artists. The race for the major awards, particularly Entertainer of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year, is tighter than ever, making predictions a near-impossible task.

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A Nomination Breakdown: The Big Three

The spotlight is firmly focused on the three artists who tied for the most nominations with six nods each: Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley, and Megan Moroney. This unprecedented tie highlights the incredible talent and commercial success of women in the genre this year.

• Lainey Wilson: The reigning superstar is nominated for the night's top prize, Entertainer of the Year, a category she is widely favored to win. Her critically acclaimed album, Whirlwind, is a strong contender for Album of the Year, and her smash single "4x4xU" secured nominations for both Single of the Year and Song of the Year. She is also a nominee for Female Vocalist of the Year.
• Ella Langley: The breakout star’s six nominations are a testament to her meteoric rise. Her raw, honest songwriting has resonated deeply with fans and voters alike. Langley is also confirmed to deliver a highly anticipated performance, showcasing her current hit "Choosin' Texas" live on the CMA stage.
• Megan Moroney: Known for her sharp wit and relatable lyrics, Moroney’s six nominations solidify her status as a major force. Her track "Am I Okay?" earned a prestigious Song of the Year nomination, which she shares with co-writers Jessie Jo Dillon and Luke Laird. Moroney is also expected to deliver a dazzling performance, having recently performed her song "6 Months Later."

Trailing closely behind the leading trio is Zach Top, who garnered five nominations, further proving that fresh talent is dominating the country music landscape. Other notable nominees include Cody Johnson and Riley Green, ensuring that the competition across all categories will be fierce and unpredictable.

The Star-Studded Performance Lineup and Special Guests

The CMA Awards are legendary for their high-production performances and unexpected collaborations, and the 2025 show is no exception. The announced lineup features a mix of country icons and new-generation trailblazers, guaranteeing a night full of memorable musical moments. The sheer star power ensures that the 59th Annual CMA Awards will be a major cultural event.

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Confirmed Performers and Presenters

The initial wave of announcements has already set the bar incredibly high. Fans can look forward to seeing some of the biggest names in the genre take the stage. These performances are often the most talked-about segments of the entire broadcast, driving massive social media engagement and high television ratings.

• Kelsea Ballerini: A multiple-time nominee and winner, Ballerini is expected to deliver a powerful, stage-commanding performance that showcases her evolution as an artist.
• Kenny Chesney: The veteran superstar and multiple Entertainer of the Year winner will bring his signature stadium energy to the Bridgestone Arena, a performance eagerly awaited by his massive fan base.
• Miranda Lambert: Known for her fierce and authentic performances, Lambert's appearance is always a highlight, often featuring a medley of her biggest hits or a surprise collaboration.
• Ella Langley: Confirmed to perform her hit "Choosin' Texas," her performance will be one of the most significant of her career, marking her arrival on country music's biggest stage.

In addition to the musical acts, the CMA has announced a fascinating group of special guests and presenters from outside the country music world, adding an element of Hollywood glamour and cross-genre appeal. The inclusion of these unexpected celebrities is a strategic move to broaden the show's appeal and generate buzz beyond the core country audience.

• Steve Martin: The legendary comedian and musician, known for his bluegrass talent, will be a presenter.
• Billy Ray Cyrus: The country-pop crossover star adds a touch of veteran celebrity to the proceedings.
• Elizabeth Hurley: The British actress and model is an unexpected, yet glamorous, addition to the list of presenters.

The combination of a historic solo host, a tight race among the top female nominees, and a dynamic performance lineup means the 2025 CMA Awards are poised to be a night of record-breaking moments and unforgettable television. Be sure to tune in on November 19 to witness country music history unfold live from Nashville, Tennessee.