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Country music’s biggest night is back — and it’s far from the Country Music Association’s first rodeo.
The 59th annual CMAs will air live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, bringing can’t-miss performances from several of country’s hottest artists.
No cable? No problem. Read on for everything you need to know to watch every last song (for free, at that).
When are the CMA Awards 2025?
The 2025 Country Music Awards will air at 8 p.m. ET on Nov. 19, 2025. (But if you tune in early, ABC’s red carpet coverage begins at 5 p.m. with interviews and fashion commentary.)
How to watch the 2025 CMA Awards for free
Since the show is on ABC this year, cord-cutters will need a live TV streaming service to catch it in real time. One of our favorites is DIRECTV, which offers a five-day free trial (after which plans start at $46 for a 90-plus channel line-up).
You’ll also get access to ESPN, Disney+ and Hulu with the entertainment plan, making it a worthwhile investment whether you’re a sports fanatic or movie fiend.
Who is hosting the 2025 CMA Awards?
Lainey Wilson is returning as host this year, marking her first time emcee-ing the show solo. (Last year she shared the stage with Peyton Manning and Luke Brian).
“I’m just proud, and I feel just so much joy. I mean, it’s a big deal. It’s some big ol’ shoes to fill,” she said in a press conference, per People. “I don’t take it lightly.”
She also revealed she asked Reba McEntire for advice before the big night, and the country music icon told her to “just be yourself and have fun.”
Who is nominated at the 2025 CMA Awards?
This year is the first time three female solo artists have shared the lead for the most CMA nods. Wilson, Megan Moroney and Ella Langley are the most-nominated of the night, with six nods apiece.
Zach Top also has five nods, while Riley Green and Cody Johnson are entering the night with four nominations each. Other top nominees include Kristian Bush, Carson Chamberlain, Luke Combs, Charlie Handsome, Chris Stapleton and Morgan Wallen — all of whom have three chances at taking home a trophy tonight.
Vince Gill is also slated to receive the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award and be honored with a celebratory tribute.
Who is performing at the 2025 CMA Awards?
The star-studded list of performers includes Kelsea Ballerini, Brandi Carlile, Kenny Chesney, Riley Green, Little Big Town, Patty Loveless and Keith Urban (to name but a few).
In true CMAs form, the night will also include several genre-mixing duets, including BigXthaPlug performing with Luke Combs and Shaboozey hitting the stage with Wilson to perform their ballad “Took A Walk.”
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