Country fans, get ready! Tonight (Thursday, June 26 at 8/7c on ABC, and streaming tomorrow on Hulu), Cody Johnson and Ashley McBryde team up to co-host CMA Fest presented by SoFi — and it’s not just the music that’s worth tuning in for.

Ahead of the broadcast, the two stars opened up about their natural chemistry, their longtime friendship, and what it’s like to host country music’s biggest summer celebration together.

From Tourmates to Co-Hosts
For Ashley McBryde, this isn’t her first rodeo. She co-hosted last year’s CMA Fest alongside Jelly Roll and quickly fell in love with the role.

“I didn’t know how much I’d enjoy hosting until I actually did it,” she shared. “Me and Jelly had a blast. So when they called and asked me to come back — and said my co-host this time would be Cody Johnson — it was an instant yes.”

Having toured together before, McBryde says she and Cody share a fun, cousin-like bond. “We’re not quite brother and sister, but close. We respect each other, we joke around, and Cody’s just a natural on stage. I hope I get to host with him again.”

Cody Feels Right at Home
Cody Johnson echoed the sentiment, saying that working with Ashley felt like catching up with an old friend.

“The first time I met Ashley, I felt like I’d known her for 15 years,” he said. “She’s got such a big personality and is so good with a mic. I knew we’d have fun together.”

While reading from a script felt “a little stiff” at first, Cody admitted everything clicked once the lights came on and the crowd got loud. “The energy in the room changes everything. It felt natural the minute we started rolling.”

They’re Not Just Hosting—They’re Performing Too
In addition to hosting duties, both stars will take the stage for powerful live performances.

Cody will sing his latest single “The Fall” and team up with Carín León for “She Hurts Like Tequila.” Meanwhile, Ashley will wow fans with her new release “Rattlesnake Preacher.”

And that’s just the beginning. The three-hour special will also include performances by some of country’s biggest names and rising stars, including:

Luke Bryan

Lainey Wilson

Blake Shelton

Kelsea Ballerini

Darius Rucker

Jason Aldean

Jelly Roll

Keith Urban

Scotty McCreery

Megan Moroney

Trace Adkins

Rascal Flatts
…and many more!

These electric performances were filmed during the 52nd annual CMA Fest earlier this month in Nashville, and fans are in for a high-energy celebration packed with surprises.

Whether you’re tuning in for the music, the hosts, or just the good vibes of country summer, CMA Fest is serving it all—Southern style.

Believe it or not, it wasn’t until 2021 that two of country music’s biggest legends, Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire, finally recorded a duet together. Fans had waited decades for the moment—and when it came, it was worth every second.

Their powerful rendition of “Does He Love You”—originally released in 1993 by Reba and Linda Davis—was reimagined as a stunning collaboration between two icons. Released as part of Reba’s three-disc compilation Revived Remixed Revisited, the song brought fresh emotion to the classic story of a wife and mistress facing hard truths about love, loyalty, and heartbreak.

A Legendary First Duet

Despite performing on the same stages and supporting each other for years, Dolly and Reba had never actually recorded a song together until then. Dolly even joked during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live, “I’ve always wanted to sing with her. I don’t know why we waited this long, but I’m glad we did.”

Their voices blended beautifully, bringing depth and fire to the track, and fans responded immediately. The duet debuted in the Top 50 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, proving once again that these two still have the magic.

More Than Just a Song
Not only did Dolly and Reba record the track, but they also shot a dramatic music video to go with it. Set in a moody club, the video shows the two women sitting across from each other, trading lines over drinks before taking the stage together in a powerful final chorus. But off-camera? It was all smiles.

“My favorite part of shooting with Dolly was just getting to hang out between takes,” Reba shared. “We laughed, talked like old girlfriends, and had so much fun with the whole thing. At first, we were playing rivals… but by the end we were like, ‘Girl, you can have him. I don’t want him!’ It was a blast.”

Will There Be More?
The chemistry between the two was so strong that it left fans (and Reba!) hoping for more collaborations. “We did talk about doing more stuff together,” Reba said in an interview. “And I hope it happens. Dolly is so funny, smart, and just a joy to be around. I could sit and listen to her all day.”

While nothing official has been announced, fans are crossing their fingers for another duet—or maybe even a Dolly cameo on Reba’s upcoming sitcom Happy’s Place.

Until then, their duet of “Does He Love You” stands as a monumental moment in country music—a long overdue meeting of two queens, and a reminder that great things are always worth the wait.

“God’s Gonna Cut You Down” is a song that’s lived many lives. First recorded in the 1940s, it’s been reimagined across genres—from country and folk to metal and alternative rock. Even Elvis Presley took a swing at it. But in 2003, Johnny Cash gave it a soul-shaking revival on his album American V: A Hundred Highways. His version, raw and powerful, became iconic—especially after the posthumous release of its star-studded music video, which has now racked up over 148 million views on YouTube.

More than two decades after Cash’s passing, country superstar Lainey Wilson stepped onto the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage to pay tribute to the Man in Black—and she did it in the most heartfelt way possible: by performing “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” using Johnny Cash’s own guitar.

A Moment Bigger Than the Music
Though she’s been on a winning streak—racking up awards, topping charts, and dominating country radio—Lainey chose not to make the night about herself. Instead, she used the sacred stage to honor one of country music’s most timeless legends. With the spotlight soft and the crowd hushed, she let her voice and Cash’s guitar do all the talking. And it gave chills.

Walking in the Footsteps of Legends
Lainey’s powerful performance joins a long list of tributes to Cash over the years, but what made hers so special was the quiet reverence she brought to it. No bells, no flashy lights—just raw emotion and deep respect.

And Cash’s legacy continues to echo. Though he passed away in 2003, his presence lives on through the iconic music video for “God’s Gonna Cut You Down,” released in 2006. Directed by Tony Kaye, the video featured a staggering lineup of stars—Johnny Depp, Whoopi Goldberg, Sheryl Crow, Woody Harrelson, Justin Timberlake, Adam Levine, Iggy Pop, and more—all coming together to honor a man whose music transcended every boundary.

Fans still revisit the video to this day, leaving heartfelt comments like:

“Only someone who’s walked through darkness could sing it this way. Cash was one of a kind.”
“Look at the lineup in that video. Johnny Cash united generations and genres. A legend, plain and simple.”
“There’s no era where this song won’t hit. He was timeless.”
“One of the most haunting, beautiful songs ever recorded.”

Lainey Wilson: Carrying the Torch
For Lainey Wilson, this wasn’t just a cover—it was a connection. A bridge between two eras of country music. And in that quiet, unforgettable moment, she reminded us all that true legends never really fade—they live on in the voices of those bold enough to carry their songs forward.

@opryofficial

Opry star @Lainey Wilson rocked the #Opry100 Honors: Johnny & June show with Johnny Cash’s guitar in hand, singing “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” 🔥🎸 What a moment!

♬ original sound – Grand Ole Opry

Ella Langley has been on a serious rise since releasing her debut album Hungover last August. With standout tracks like “Nicotine” and “Better Be Tough”, she made her mark — but it was her duet “You Look Like You Love Me” with Riley Green that truly caught fire. Their onstage chemistry even sparked a few dating rumors (that they’ve both laughed off), but the sweetest story connected to the song came from someone completely unexpected — a young fan with a big voice and an even bigger heart.

The TikTok That Melted Hearts — Including Ella’s
In a now-viral TikTok, a little girl can be seen singing “You Look Like You Love Me” with pure focus — snack and juice in front of her, eyes closed as she belts out the lyrics. She didn’t miss a beat. The video quickly racked up over 39,000 likes as fans flooded the comments with love for her adorable performance.

One comment stood out from the rest: “I’m obsessed with her,” wrote Ella Langley herself.

Not only did she comment — she reposted the video on her own TikTok page, introducing the young star-in-the-making to her millions of fans. The original poster was over the moon, replying, “You just made her day.” And honestly? She made ours too.

Ella’s Iconic Wink Sparks a Whole New Wave of Buzz

Not long after the heartwarming moment, Ella found herself going viral again — this time for a playful onstage interaction.

During a recent show, a fan in the front row held up a phone sign that read:
“Wink if Riley’s a dumbass.”

Right on cue, Ella looked up, smiled, and gave a dramatic, exaggerated wink that sent the crowd (and the internet) into a frenzy.

@ally_maxwell773

Ella Langley in the flesh 😂

♬ original sound – ally_maxwell

Whiskey Riff even shared the clip, and Ella chimed in on Instagram with a hilarious comment:
“Bro, my bangs were totally in my eye.”

Riley Green couldn’t resist jumping in either, joking:
“She must’ve thought it said ‘Wink if Riley is a great dancer.’”

Fans loved every second of the banter, and it’s clear these two know how to keep things fun—whether onstage, online, or in the comment section.

What’s Next for Ella Langley?

With viral moments stacking up and fans tuning in more than ever, Ella is already thinking ahead. When asked who she dreams of collaborating with next, she didn’t hesitate:

“I don’t care who wrote it, as long as I get to sing with Stevie Nicks.”

@achybreakycontent

she said honesty is the best policy 😉 queen behavior @Ella Langley #fyp #ellalangley #rileygreen

♬ weren’t for the wind – Ella Langley

With her bold personality, powerhouse vocals, and growing fanbase, we wouldn’t be surprised if that dream collab happens sooner than later.

From viral TikToks to flirty stage moments, Ella Langley is doing country music her way — and fans are loving every second.

Country riser Ella Langley is gearing up for her next big moment with the release of her brand-new single, “Never Met Anyone Like You,” dropping this Friday, June 27. Co-written with country hitmakers HARDY and Jordan Schmidt, the track has already stirred up serious excitement online after a brief teaser last week.

In a recent Instagram post, Langley shared a behind-the-scenes look at the recording process — and fans are buzzing over one standout detail. The video shows HARDY in the studio adding harmony vocals, which has led many to believe this might be a full-blown duet. While not officially confirmed, their vocal chemistry in the clip is undeniable. With both artists blending country and Southern rock in their music, a collaboration would be nothing short of explosive.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ella Langley (@ellalangleymusic)

Ella Langley: Country’s Breakout Voice
Following the success of her debut album hungover, Langley has quickly become one of the most talked-about new names in country music. Her bold lyrics, magnetic stage presence, and fierce individuality set her apart in a crowded field of rising stars. She’s not just playing the country game — she’s rewriting the rules.

Already known for her duets with Riley Green, Langley has been steadily building momentum, and “Never Met Anyone Like You” looks to be another major step forward in her solo journey. Fans are ready — and if the early preview is any indication, this one might just be the summer anthem we didn’t know we needed.

The 60th Annual ACM Awards on May 8, 2025, promised glitz and glamor—but it was Miranda Lambert who turned the night into something unforgettable. Beneath the dazzling lights of the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, the show came to a quiet, emotional standstill as she stepped onto the stage with purpose—and something deeper on her heart.

Dressed in simple elegance, Miranda approached the mic and, with barely a whisper, said:
“This is for you, Blake.”

The audience froze. Just four words, but they carried the weight of a shared history, a past filled with love, loss, and everything in between.

Then came her performance of “Run,” a previously unreleased ballad from her new album Postcards from Texas. Sparse piano, raw vocals, and lyrics laced with regret filled the room. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment of truth.

A Song That Said Everything

The song’s lyrics were heartbreaking:

“You say I run too fast / But what else could I do / When everything we built / Was already leaving you…”

As she sang, cameras caught Blake Shelton seated in the front row next to his wife, Gwen Stefani. He didn’t speak, but the look on his face—tight jaw, misty eyes—said everything. Gwen gently touched his arm, offering quiet support in a moment that felt too real for TV.

For viewers at home, it wasn’t just entertainment. It was witnessing something raw between two people who once shared a life. And in that moment, the ACM stage felt more like a page from a personal journal than an award show.

Social Media Reacts
Within minutes, hashtags like #ThisIsForYouBlake, #MirandaLambertRun, and #ACM2025 were trending across TikTok and X (formerly Twitter). Fans praised the performance as “chilling,” “breathtaking,” and “one of the most honest things country music has seen in years.”

Critics agreed. Rolling Stone called it “a masterclass in emotional storytelling,” while Billboard said it “may go down as the most powerful performance of Lambert’s career.”

“Some Goodbyes Deserve a Second Goodbye”
At the post-show press conference, Miranda broke her silence about the song’s meaning:
“I never planned to sing that one live. But tonight… it felt right. Maybe some goodbyes deserve a second goodbye.”

There was no encore. No dramatic curtain call. Just Miranda, walking off the stage quietly—leaving behind a moment that will be replayed, talked about, and felt for years to come.

In a world where award shows often feel scripted, Miranda Lambert reminded us what real emotion looks like—and why country music still has the power to break your heart in the best possible way.

A tribute, a goodbye, and a performance we’ll never forget.

Country fans showed up to the 2025 CMA Awards expecting big moments—but nothing prepared them for the emotional storm Blake Shelton stirred up during his acceptance speech.

After snagging the Male Vocalist of the Year award, Blake approached the mic with his signature laid-back charm. But then, everything shifted. He glanced out into the crowd… and locked eyes with a very familiar face.

“Miranda, you were the reason I ever picked up a guitar — and maybe still the reason some songs hurt more than they should.”

The crowd froze.

Miranda Lambert, seated just a few rows away—with Gwen Stefani beside her—visibly teared up, trying to hold it together. She mouthed “Oh my God” and looked away, hand over her lips. It was a deeply personal, vulnerable moment in an otherwise glitzy night. The room went silent before erupting into a roar of applause that felt less like cheers and more like a collective gasp of shared emotion.

Blake, visibly moved, paused before finishing his speech with gratitude for his fans, his late father, and Gwen—who reached over and gently took his hand in a moment full of quiet support.

It was raw. It was real. And it was unforgettable.

Just When We Thought Blake Couldn’t Top That… He Fangirls Over Michael Bublé

Less than a day later, Blake Shelton was back on stage—this time at The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. The mood? Much more relaxed. But the night was about to take a hilarious and heartwarming turn.

Halfway through singing God Gave Me You, Blake squinted into the front row and suddenly burst out laughing.

“Hold up — is that Michael freakin’ Bublé and his wife out here acting like it’s Coachella?!”

The crowd lost it. Phones flew into the air. And sure enough—there was Michael Bublé and actress Luisana Lopilato, clapping and singing along like the biggest country fans in the room.

Blake didn’t miss a beat. He playfully pointed at Luisana and said, “If Michael won’t come up here, maybe you will.” Moments later, she was on stage, surprising everyone with soft, beautiful vocals that blended perfectly with Blake’s deep, earthy tone. Meanwhile, Bublé stood in the front row, beaming and filming like a proud husband at a talent show.

TikTok Is Obsessed: #BubléSheltonCrossover Is Taking Over

Unsurprisingly, the moment exploded online.

TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) are flooded with clips of the duet, with fans chiming in:

🗣️ “Michael Bublé cheering on his wife while she sings with Blake Shelton? I’m not okay.”
🗣️ “Plot twist: Luisana’s going country and Blake’s producing her EP.”
🗣️ “This concert just went from Nashville to Vancouver in 30 seconds. I’m obsessed.”

Blake Shelton Just Gave Us a Week to Remember

In just 48 hours, Blake delivered an emotional tribute, an unexpected crossover, and a reminder of why he’s still one of country music’s most relatable stars.

✔️ He honored his past with Miranda in the most heartfelt way.
✔️ He shared the moment with Gwen, standing strong at his side.
✔️ He turned a chill concert night into a viral lovefest with the Bublés.

From soul-baring speeches to surprise duets, Blake didn’t just win an award—he won hearts all over again.

And for country fans? It was the kind of week you’ll replay over and over.

No one saw it coming. What began as a quiet, intimate farewell to beloved chef Anne Burrell turned into a moment that will be remembered forever—when country legends Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire quietly entered a small chapel in upstate New York to say goodbye in their own powerful way.

There were no cameras. No fanfare. Just two dear friends, showing up not as superstars, but as people deeply touched by Anne’s life.

A Tribute Born from Friendship
Anne Burrell, the spirited Food Network personality known for her big blonde hair, bolder flavors, and fearless attitude, passed away unexpectedly at age 54. Her larger-than-life presence on shows like Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and Worst Cooks in America made her a fan favorite, but to those who knew her best, Anne was much more—a loyal friend, a passionate cook, and someone who always made you feel welcome.

She once joked, “If I ever go too soon, I want Dolly to sing me out and Reba to bring the pie.” No one ever thought that moment would really come—but somehow, it did.

Dolly and Reba’s Quiet Entrance
As the memorial service was underway, a hush spread through the chapel. Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire entered through a side door—no entourage, no announcement. Just grace, love, and a quiet mission.

Dressed simply and respectfully, they walked to the front, carrying their guitars. Without a word, they sat side by side under a stained-glass window, and the pastor stepped aside.

Then, Dolly strummed the opening chords of “I Will Always Love You.”

A Song That Stopped Time
Dolly’s voice, delicate and pure, filled the chapel with emotion. Reba soon joined in, adding harmonies that grounded the song with quiet strength. It wasn’t a performance. It was a goodbye wrapped in music—raw, respectful, and heartbreakingly beautiful.

The entire room was still. Mourners cried openly. Even the officiants were frozen in the moment. For those few minutes, it felt like time stood still.

When the final note faded, Dolly whispered, “This one’s for you, honey.” Then, with tears in her eyes, she gently placed her guitar down—almost like she was letting go of a friend’s hand.

“We Came as Friends”
Dolly looked at the crowd and said softly, “Anne had a heart bigger than any kitchen she ever worked in. She made people feel seen, fed, and loved. That’s why we’re here—not as stars, but as friends.”

Reba nodded, adding, “She always said she cooked like she was singing—full throttle and with soul. So this was our duet back to her.”

Remembering Anne with Flavor and Fire
Outside, guests gathered to share red velvet cupcakes—Anne’s favorite—and play her go-to country playlist. Someone streamed Reba’s “Fancy” from a speaker. People sang along. Others hugged and cried. It was a farewell Anne would’ve loved.

Anne Burrell wasn’t just a chef. She was joy in motion. She made messy feel magical and gave home cooks the courage to try, fail, and try again. Her legacy lives on in the meals we make, the laughs she gave, and the hearts she warmed.

Thanks to Dolly and Reba, her final goodbye wasn’t just heard—it was felt.

Rest well, Chef Anne. Your flame still burns.

The school auditorium was quiet, glowing with soft golden light that made everything feel extra special. On the small stage—decorated with wildflowers, family photos, and a hand-painted sign that read “Happy Father’s Day, Dad ❤️”—stood Carrie Underwood’s young son, nervous but determined.

The floor creaked beneath his little shoes as he stepped forward, eyes flicking toward the red curtain behind him. At the center of the stage was an old upright piano, and behind it sat Carrie—dressed simply, no glam or spotlight—just a proud mom, ready to guide him with a smile full of love.

The lights dimmed, the room held its breath, and the first gentle notes from the piano began.

Carrie gave her son a soft, reassuring nod that said, “I’m right here.” That was all he needed. His voice, a little shaky at first, began to carry through the room. Each word was tender and true, like a letter to his dad straight from his heart.

When they reached the chorus together—“You’re my hero, even when you don’t wear a cape…”—you could hear quiet sniffles all around. And in the front row, Mike Fisher sat still, eyes locked on his son, tears slowly sliding down his face.

Then came the moment that stole everyone’s breath: Carrie stepped back, giving her son the stage. He sang the final line alone, “Dad is my hero,” and the silence that followed was filled with love.

In that one moment:
A little boy found his voice.
A father was overwhelmed with pride.
And a mother held the room together—with a song, a smile, and so much heart.

No big lights. No huge crowd.
Just one stage, one family, and one unforgettable tribute.

Talk about a birthday to remember! Seven-year-old Cecilia melted hearts when she joined Ella Langley and Riley Green on stage to sing their hit duet “You Look Like You Love Me” during the Barefoot Country Music Fest on June 22.

The sweet surprise came just one day after the song celebrated its first anniversary—and what better way to mark the milestone than with an unforgettable performance featuring the most adorable guest star?

@ally_maxwell773

Ella Langley in the flesh 😂

♬ original sound – ally_maxwell

It all started earlier in June, when Cecilia’s mom, Ally, posted a TikTok of her daughter singing the song while enjoying a snack. The clip quickly caught Ella Langley’s attention, who couldn’t help but comment, “I’m obsessed with her.” That simple interaction sparked a chain of events leading to a real-life meet-up—and a moment on stage that fans won’t soon forget.

Originally, Ally was just hoping for a birthday shoutout from Ella. Instead, Cecilia got to sing alongside Ella and Riley Green in front of a crowd—and absolutely owned it. As the crowd cheered and the song wrapped up, Ella beamed and encouraged her young fan with a cheerful, “Get it, girl!”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ella Langley (@ellalangleymusic)

The duet, released on June 21, 2024, has had a huge year—winning multiple CMA and ACM awards, including Single of the Year, and earning double platinum certification. But that night, all eyes were on Cecilia, whose charm and confidence wowed everyone.

Riley Green later commented on the video, saying simply, “Stole the show.” Even Noah Cyrus chimed in, calling the moment “the cutest thing.”

Happy birthday, Cecilia—you made country music magic!