The 59th Annual Country Music Awards (CMA) is set to take place in Nashville, bringing together a celebration of country music and the industry’s most talented artists. Established in 1958, the Country Music Association (CMA) serves as the premier organization for advancing the genre, with thousands of its members participating in the voting process to recognize outstanding contributions in music.
The inaugural CMA Awards show occurred in 1967, and it quickly gained popularity with its first national broadcast on NBC a year later. In 2006, the awards shifted to ABC, where they have remained ever since, showcasing the best in country music.
The ceremony will be broadcast live from Nashville on Wednesday, November 19, at 8 PM ET on ABC. For those unable to watch the live event, it will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day. Fans can also expect a sneak peek of the ceremony through Good Morning America on the day of the event, with a recap segment planned for the following morning.
Returning as host for the second consecutive year is Lainey Wilson, who is also nominated for six awards this year, including the prestigious Female Vocalist of the Year. In addition to her hosting duties, Wilson is scheduled to deliver a significant performance, adding to the excitement of the evening. Good Morning America is set to feature a behind-the-scenes segment with Wilson prior to the start of the awards.
A diverse lineup of performers is confirmed for the awards. Ella Langley will showcase her song “Choosin’ Texas,” while Megan Moroney will perform “6 Months Later,” and Tucker Wetmore will deliver “Wind Up Missin’ You.” Additionally, Zach Top will present “Guitar” and Stephen Wilson Jr. will put his spin on “Stand By Me.” Notable collaborations will include BigXthaPlug joining Luke Combs for “Pray Hard” and Shaboozey performing alongside Wilson for “Took A Walk.” The performance roster also boasts stars such as Kelsea Ballerini, Brandi Carlile, Kenny Chesney, Riley Green, Little Big Town, Patty Loveless, and Keith Urban.
Recognized presenters for the event include Elizabeth Hurley, Steve Martin, Lady A, Ne-Yo, Jordan Davis, and GMA co-anchor Lara Spencer. The nominee list covers various categories, with emerging artists like Langley, Shaboozey, Top, Wetmore, and Wilson competing for New Artist of the Year. In the Entertainer of the Year category, contenders include Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, and Wilson.
This year’s CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award will be honored to country music legend Vince Gill, with a special tribute performance planned for the awards night.
The red carpet event kicks off at 5 PM ET. Viewers can catch a live stream of the festivities on CMAAwards.com, OnTheRedCarpet.com, and through ABC’s connected TV apps across platforms like Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, and Roku, with a simulcast airing across ABC affiliates from 5 to 8 PM ET.
For fans eager to know more about the CMA Awards:
– Lainey Wilson is hosting the event for the second year.
– The awards air live on November 19 at 8 PM ET on ABC.
– Viewers can stream the ceremony on Hulu the following day.