2025 Country Music Association Awards Highlights
Laney Wilson took home the top honor of Entertainer of the Year at the 2025 Country Music Association Awards. She not only hosted the event but also performed extensively, almost never leaving the stage. In her acceptance speech, she remarked, “It takes a village,” and cheerfully added, “We’re going to party now.” She triumphed over notable nominees like Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, and last year’s winner, Morgan Wallen.
Earlier that night, Wilson secured the Album of the Year award for “Whirlwind,” marking her second win in this category, and added another trophy for Female Vocalist of the Year, making it her fourth win for that title.
During her speech, she took the opportunity to acknowledge other women in country music while also expressing frustration towards those who spread negativity. “To all of you who are sitting at home or in your mom’s basement eating Cheetos and trying to pit women against each other,” she concluded, “you guys need to find something better to do.”
In fact, Wilson’s five awards included Entertainer of the Year, resonating with fans and critics alike.
However, Wilson wasn’t the only standout that evening at the CMA Awards, held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Ella Langley and Riley Green celebrated their hit “You Look Like You Love Me,” which won both single and song of the year. Langley expressed, “This song is the gift that keeps on giving,” while Green noted the surprise of a song featuring a talking verse taking home such an award.
Vince Gill was honored with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award and was serenaded with “When I Call Your Name” by Brandi Carlile and Patti Loveless. George Strait praised Gill, stating, “He’s just a tremendous talent” and jokingly remarked about Gill not being the type to indulge in certain habits.
Brooks & Dunn claimed their 16th Vocal Duo of the Year award. Kix Brooks playfully questioned if they ever got tired of winning, to which he responded, “no way!” Cody Johnson celebrated his first Male Vocalist of the Year award.
Luke Combs kicked off the show with a high-energy performance of “Back in the Saddle,” paving the way for Wilson, who dazzled the crowd with a lively medley alongside surprise guests like Little Big Town and Keith Urban.
The night continued with memorable performances from various artists including Kelsea Ballerini and Kenny Chesney. Old Dominion entertained with a medley that engaged the audience, while Wilson’s funky “Ring Finger” showcased her versatility. Collaborations hinted at an evolving genre, particularly with Combs joining rapper BigXThaPlug for the duet “Pray Hard.”
Zack Top, who opened the show with the song “Guitar,” received the New Artist of the Year award, adding a humorous touch to his speech when he mentioned forgetting whether to put the beer down first.
The CMA Awards, determined by members of the Country Music Association, highlight the artistic achievements in the field, and fans watched the live broadcast on ABC as well as streamed it on Hulu.
