The Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee, was buzzing on Wednesday as country music’s biggest names gathered for the 59th Annual CMA Awards.
Fans and celebrities alike were treated to a night full of glittering gowns, dazzling performances, and a celebration of the genre’s finest talent.
Lainey Wilson Commands the Red Carpet
Hosting the event this year is 33-year-old Lainey Wilson, who made an unforgettable entrance in a plunging, bedazzled teal bodysuit.
Her look included a long, sheer mint green cape and a matching cowboy hat, combining glamour with her signature country style.
Wilson arrived alongside her fiancé, former NFL star Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges, who looked sharp as ever by her side.
Megan Moroney and Other Showstoppers
Meanwhile, 28-year-old Megan Moroney turned heads in a strapless black gown adorned with crystal detailing, complemented by dramatic black opera gloves.
Other notable red carpet moments included Ella Langley, 26, in a sheer red lace gown, and Jessica Capshaw, 49, in a sparkling navy mini dress.
Country veterans like LeAnn Rimes, 43, and Kelsea Ballerini, 32, also made stylish statements in elegant gowns, while Billy Ray Cyrus and Elizabeth Hurley enjoyed a glamorous date night with coordinated, bold looks.
Top Nominees Bring Fierce Competition
This year’s nominations are led by Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, and Ella Langley, each earning six nods.
Zach Top follows with five, while Riley Green and Cody Johnson received four apiece.
Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, and others round out the field with three nominations each, promising fierce competition across multiple categories.
Musical Performances Highlight the Evening
Audiences were treated to show-stopping performances from Patty Loveless, Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Old Dominion, and Brandi Carlile.
The evening also featured a tribute to Vince Gill, who received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long contributions to country music.
CMA CEO Sarah Trahern praised Gill for embodying the spirit and generosity of the genre while continuing to share his talent worldwide.
Early Winners Set the Tone
Even before the main show kicked off, some awards were announced.
Post Malone and Blake Shelton took home honors for “Pour Me a Drink,” while Ella Langley and Riley Green won CMA Music Video of the Year.
Lainey Wilson Reflects on Hosting and Progress for Women in Country Music
Speaking to Good Morning America, Wilson admitted that being nominated for six awards feels “pretty dang special,” but hosting the CMA Awards is an honor she treasures even more.
She highlighted the importance of women in country music continuing to push boundaries, acknowledging the trailblazers who came before her.
“I’ve known since moving to Nashville in 2011 that I’d have to kick down some barn doors myself,” Wilson told Us Weekly.
“There have been times it’s harder because I’m a woman, but that’s when I dug in and worked harder.
I wouldn’t be here without the women who paved the way.”
A Night to Remember for Country Fans
With its combination of red carpet glamour, heartfelt speeches, and incredible performances, the 59th CMA Awards proved why Nashville remains the heart of country music.
From breakout stars to legends, the evening celebrated talent, resilience, and the shared passion that keeps the genre thriving.f
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn