Lainey Wilson accepts the award for Female Vocalist of the Year onstage during the 59th CMA Awards at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. (Photo: UPI)
Lainey Wilson owned the spotlight at the 2025 Country Music Association Awards, turning Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena into her personal stage. She hosted, performed, and collected the night’s biggest honour — entertainer of the year — in a show that celebrated both rising stars and legendary icons.
Wilson Sweeps the Top Categories
Wilson’s entertainer of the year win capped a remarkable evening. She triumphed over Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, and last year’s winner Morgan Wallen. In her speech, she kept it simple and spirited: “It takes a village. We about to party.”
Her momentum started early. Wilson secured album of the year for Whirlwind, her second career win in that category. She also took home female vocalist of the year for the fourth time.But she didn’t leave the stage without making a statement. Addressing critics who fuel rivalry among women in country music, Wilson delivered a pointed message: people “trying to pit women against each other” need something better to do.
A Night of Milestones for New Voices
While Wilson led the pack, she wasn’t the only artist celebrating major wins. Ella Langley and Riley Green’s retro hit You Look Like You Love Me earned both single and song of the year. Langley called the track “the gift that keeps on giving,” while Green marveled at the success of a song built around talking verses.
Zach Top also had a breakthrough moment. His performance of Guitar set the tone early in the evening, and he later claimed new artist of the year. He lightened the mood with a joke about forgetting whether to put his beer down before accepting his first CMA trophy.
Vince Gill Honoured With Lifetime Achievement Award
One of the night’s most emotional moments came when Vince Gill received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. Brandi Carlile and Patty Loveless honoured him with a stirring performance of When I Call Your Name.
George Strait, presenting the award, praised Gill’s unmatched talent: “His guitar playing is amazing. His songwriting is amazing. His singing is amazing.” He also reminded the audience that Gill is now part of The Eagles.
Gill’s trademark humour shone through. He joked about his high vocal tone and quipped he might be the only recipient of the award who has “never smoked any weed,” a good-natured nod to Nelson.
Big Wins Across the Board
Brooks & Dunn extended their record with a 16th win for vocal duo of the year. “Do we ever get sick of this? Hell no!” Kix Brooks said, earning a roar from the crowd.
Cody Johnson secured male vocalist of the year, marking his first win in the category. It added another milestone to an already strong night for his fan base.
Powerhouse Performances Light Up the Arena
The show opened with energy. Luke Combs delivered a fiery Back in the Saddle, followed by Wilson’s upbeat medley backed by surprise guests including Little Big Town and Keith Urban.
The performances came rapid-fire. Chris Stapleton, Kelsea Ballerini, Kenny Chesney, Stephen Wilson Jr., The Red Clay Strays, and Megan Moroney each delivered standout sets. Old Dominion brought the crowd to its feet with a medley from a small stage nestled in the audience.
A new wave of talent also made its mark. Langley, Green, Tucker Wetmore, and rapper BigXThaPlug showcased a fresh blend of sounds. Combs joined BigXThaPlug for Pray Hard, underscoring country music’s growing connection with rap.
Shaboozey added intensity with his genre-bending style, while Wilson’s Ring Finger reminded audiences of her range and fearlessness.
How the Winners Are Chosen
The CMA Awards are nominated and voted on by members of the Country Music Association, a group that includes artists, publicists, executives, and other industry professionals. The show aired live on ABC and will be available for streaming on Hulu starting Thursday.
