Show summary Hide summary
A Historic Solo Host: Why Lainey Wilson Is Making CMA History
The Country Music Association Awards 2025 are set to be unforgettable, with Lainey Wilson at the center of it all. This year, she’ll be the sole host of the ceremony — a role not taken on by a single person since Luke Bryan in 2021 and, before him, Vince Gill, who held the post from 1994 to 2003.
Wilson is stepping into those iconic boots after co-hosting in 2024 with Bryan and Peyton Manning. The decision to have her fly solo marks a huge vote of confidence from CMA producers.
It also confirms what many fans already feel: that Wilson is the face of modern country music.
À lireTaylor Swift Makes History Again: First Album Ever to Cross 5 Million Spotify Pre-Saves
À lireThe Energizing Hits of the Month Designed to Combat Fall Depression with Feel-Good Vibes and Infectious Positive Energy
Six Nominations, One Artist: Could She Sweep the Night?
Not only will she be running the show — she’s also the most nominated artist this year, tied with Megan Moroney and Ella Langley at six nods apiece. Her nominations include:
- Entertainer of the Year (which she won in 2023 — her first nomination!)
- Female Vocalist of the Year
- Single and Song of the Year for “4x4xU“
- Album of the Year for “Whirlwind“
- Music Video of the Year for “Somewhere Over Laredo“
It’s rare for an artist to host and lead in nominations at the same time — a powerful sign of just how far Wilson’s influence reaches right now.
From ‘Yellowstone’ to Headlining Arenas: The Rise of Lainey Wilson
Wilson’s journey hasn’t been overnight. She made early waves with her 2021 album “Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’,” but things truly exploded after her small role in the hit TV show “Yellowstone.”
That visibility gave her a boost — but it’s her grit, honesty, and powerhouse vocals that turned her into a force.
She now has eight Top 5 hits on the country airplay chart (five solo, three collaborations), and just wrapped up her first headlining arena tour, which completely sold out. Her third major-label album, “Whirlwind,” cemented her status as one of country’s most essential new voices.
What fans love most? Wilson is real. She talks like us, sings like she’s lived every lyric, and brings a mix of traditional storytelling with a fresh, bold twist.
November 19, 2025: A Must-Watch Night for Country Fans
The 59th Annual CMA Awards will broadcast live on ABC from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on November 19 at 8 p.m. ET, and will stream the following day on Hulu.
À lireGuess the Song: The Ultimate 1970s Music Guide
À lireGuess the Song: The Ultimate 1980s Music Guide
Between hosting duties and the strong chance of multiple wins, Lainey Wilson’s night might be one for the record books. And who knows — if she keeps this up, she could follow in the footsteps of Carrie Underwood, who hosted for 12 straight years.
In any case, if you’re a fan of country, or just great live TV, mark your calendar. Lainey’s about to light up the stage.
