CMA Awards 2025 Winners Lainey Wilson Dominates

CMA Awards 2025: Lainey Wilson Takes Home Top Honors

The 59th annual Country Music Association Awards lit up Nashville's Bridgestone Arena on November 19, 2025, delivering a night of unforgettable performances, stunning fashion, and historic wins. Hosted by Lainey Wilson—who made history as the first solo female host since Reba McEntire in 1991—the ceremony celebrated the best in country music with electrifying energy.

Wilson didn't just command the stage as host; she dominated the awards circuit, taking home the coveted Entertainer of the Year trophy. Her wins extended to Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year for "Whirlwind," and Song of the Year for "you look like you love me" (co-written with Riley Green). This quadruple win solidified her status as the evening's undisputed queen.

Other major winners included:

• Cody Johnson – Male Vocalist of the Year
• The Red Clay Strays – Vocal Group of the Year
• Brooks & Dunn – Vocal Duo of the Year
• Paul Franklin – Musician of the Year (Steel Guitar)
• Ella Langley & Riley Green – Single of the Year and Music Video of the Year for "you look like you love me"
• Zach Top – New Artist of the Year
• Post Malone – Musical Event of the Year for "Pour Me A Drink" featuring Blake Shelton

Country music legend Vince Gill received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, joining an elite list of past recipients including George Strait, Alan Jackson, Dolly Parton, and Kenny Rogers.

Red Carpet Glamour: Fashion Highlights

The pre-show red carpet was a showcase of country-meets-glamour fashion. Lainey Wilson stunned in a teal jumpsuit with glittery accents, a plunging neckline, and a flowing green cape, paired with a green cowboy hat. Kelsea Ballerini turned heads in a strapless red tulle dress resembling a rose, while LeAnn Rimes made a bold statement in a strapless brown gown with a thigh-high slit and floral detailing. Megan Moroney opted for dramatic flair in a strapless black gown with silver stripes and opera gloves.

Memorable Performances

Beyond the awards, the night was defined by powerhouse performances. Rising star Ella Langley and Riley Green delivered a show-stopping rendition of their hit single "you look like you love me," while Megan Moroney and Cody Johnson also wowed audiences with their sets. Luke Combs, though not a winner this year, still brought the house down with his signature energy.

"I let Reba know I was doing this and she was so excited," Wilson shared about her historic hosting role during an October podcast. "It's been a long time since a woman has done it solo. I'm glad they trust me. I like to run my mouth and I love country music."

"If I can poke fun at people, hey, we good," Wilson added, revealing her goal to bring humor to the ceremony.

As the curtain closed on the 2025 CMA Awards, one thing was clear: Lainey Wilson's reign had only just begun. With record-breaking wins and a hosting performance for the ages, she's cemented her place as one of country music's most dynamic stars.