CMA Awards 2025: Full Winner List
Country Music's Biggest Night: CMA Awards 2025 Winners Revealed
The 59th Annual Country Music Association Awards lit up Nashville's Bridgestone Arena on November 19, 2025, with Lainey Wilson making history as both host and triple crown winner. The star-studded event crowned new champions and honored legends, delivering unforgettable moments on the red carpet and stage.
Lainey Wilson's Historic Night
Wilson stole the show as the first solo female host since Reba McEntire in 1991, bringing her signature humor and love for country music to the stage. But her hosting role was just the beginning of her historic night, as she took home three major awards:
- Entertainer of the Year
- Female Vocalist of the Year
- Album of the Year for "Whirlwind"
"I let Reba know I was doing this and she was so excited. It’s been a long time since a woman has done it solo. I’m glad they trust me."
Wilson also won Song of the Year for "4x4xU" and Single of the Year for "you look like you love me" (with Riley Green), making her the undisputed queen of country music.
Major Winners and Surprises
Competing against heavyweights Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, and Cody Johnson, Wilson's Entertainer of the Year win shocked fans and industry insiders alike. Cody Johnson claimed Male Vocalist of the Year, while Zach Top was named New Artist of the Year.
Other notable winners included:
- Vocal Group of the Year: The Red Clay Strays
- Vocal Duo of the Year: Brooks & Dunn
- Musical Event of the Year: "Pour Me A Drink" by Post Malone feat. Blake Shelton
- Musician of the Year: Paul Franklin (Steel Guitar)
- Music Video of the Year: "you look like you love me" by Ella Langley & Riley Green
Vince Gill Receives Lifetime Achievement Honor
Country music legend Vince Gill was celebrated with the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, joining an elite group including George Strait, Alan Jackson, Dolly Parton, and Kenny Rogers. Gill's emotional acceptance speech brought the audience to their feet.
Red Carpet Fashion Highlights
The night also dazzled with show-stopping fashion:
- Lainey Wilson: Teal jumpsuit with glittery details and flowing green cape
- Kelsea Ballerini: Strapless red tulle dress resembling a rose
- LeAnn Rimes: Strapless brown gown with thigh-high slit
- Megan Moroney: Black gown with silver stripes and opera gloves

Unforgettable Performances
Musical moments included powerhouse performances by Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, and Luke Combs, with Keith Urban making a triumphant return to the stage after his split from Nicole Kidman.
What's Next for Country Music
With rising stars like Ella Langley and Zach Top taking home awards alongside established icons, the 2025 CMAs highlighted country music's exciting evolution. As the industry looks ahead, the night proved that tradition and innovation can coexist, setting the stage for an even brighter future for country music.

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Dr. Amanda Foster
Health and wellness expert with a focus on medical breakthroughs, nutrition, and public health.