The Country Music Association has officially revealed the nominees for the 59th Annual CMA Awards, and this year’s list is packed with rising stars, fan favorites, and some big surprises. The announcement was made during a live stream on CMA’s Facebook and YouTube, and country fans everywhere are already buzzing.

Leading the nominations are Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, and Lainey Wilson, each earning six nods. Zach Top follows closely with five, while Riley Green and Cody Johnson proudly land four nominations each. Other big names like Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, and Morgan Wallen scored three nominations apiece.

The Entertainer of the Year category — one of the night’s biggest honors — will see Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson battle it out for the crown.

There are also plenty of fresh faces in the mix. First-time nominees include Johnny Clawson, Jessie Jo Dillon, Tucker Wetmore, and Stephen Wilson Jr., showing just how strong the next wave of country talent really is.

CMA CEO Sarah Trahern summed it up perfectly: “The nominees announced today represent some of the most impactful work happening across Country Music… congratulations to all of this year’s nominees.”

Fans won’t have to wait too long to celebrate — the CMA Awards air live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 19 (8–11 PM EST) on ABC, with next-day streaming on Hulu.

With 7,000+ CMA members voting — including artists, songwriters, producers, and industry leaders — this year’s awards are set to be a true reflection of country music’s best.

✨ Highlights to Watch For:

• Riley Green’s duet “you look like you love me” with Ella Langley is up for multiple awards.

• Megan Moroney’s “Am I Okay?” is making waves with nominations for both Album of the Year and Music Video of the Year.

• Post Malone is even in the running, crossing over into the country spotlight with Album of the Year and a collaboration with Blake Shelton.

Between seasoned legends and exciting newcomers, this year’s CMAs promise to be one of the most memorable yet.

The 2023 CMA Awards turned into a truly moving night as Kenny Chesney and Mac McAnally paid tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett with a soulful performance of his classic hit, “A Pirate Looks at Forty.”

The song, written in 1974, has long captured Buffett’s signature style—nostalgic storytelling, the yearning for freedom, and the spirit of living life on your own terms. It’s more than a song; it’s an anthem for dreamers and wanderers everywhere.

Chesney, a close friend and collaborator of Buffett, led the performance with heartfelt vocals, perfectly capturing the reflective and wistful tone of the song. Legendary musician Mac McAnally, known for his work with Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band, provided intricate guitar work and harmonies, grounding the tribute in authenticity.

The stage itself added to the magic. Soft lighting evoked a tropical sunset, and images of Buffett appeared on screens behind them, reminding the audience of the joy and freedom his music brought into the world. Fans and fellow artists alike were visibly moved, with tears and cheers filling the room.

More than just a performance, this tribute was a celebration of Buffett’s enduring legacy. Chesney and McAnally’s rendition of “A Pirate Looks at Forty” honored the legendary musician’s life, storytelling, and influence, leaving a lasting impression on everyone watching.

Carrie Underwood made her big return to the stage at Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas, and fans couldn’t get enough of her energy, style, and powerhouse vocals.

Dressed in a coral corset paired with sparkling denim shorts covered in rhinestones and ruffles, the superstar lit up the stage with a brand-new dance routine during her performance of “Denim & Rhinestones.” It was the perfect way to kick off the latest run of her REFLECTION: The Las Vegas Residency.

Of course, Carrie didn’t stop there. Throughout the night, she treated fans to her biggest hits — from “Before He Cheats” and “Blown Away” to the emotional “Cry Pretty” and the jaw-dropping finale, “Something in the Water.” The sold-out crowd was on their feet, singing along to every word.

After the show, the Oklahoma native shared her excitement on Instagram, writing:
“We’re back, baby! Our first show back @resortsworldlv was SO much FUN. Vegas crowds are always amazing! Thanks for having some fun with us on a Wednesday night!”

Carrie’s Vegas run comes right after her massive 43-city Denim & Rhinestones Tour, proving she has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. In fact, she’s busier than ever — with a new SiriusXM channel, a deluxe album, and a fresh single hitting country radio.

🎶 CARRIE’S COUNTRY on SiriusXM
In June, Carrie launched her very own SiriusXM channel, giving fans a peek into her personal music world. From country and rock to gospel and workout jams, the channel is a mix of her favorites plus behind-the-scenes stories from her career.

🎶 Deluxe Album & New Music
She’s also gearing up to release Denim & Rhinestones (Deluxe Edition), which will feature six brand-new songs. One of them, “Take Me Out,” is all about bringing back the spark in a relationship — something fans are already loving.

🎶 “Out Of That Truck” on Country Radio
Meanwhile, her latest single, “Out Of That Truck,” is already spinning on country radio. It’s not your typical truck song — instead, it’s a bold breakup anthem where Carrie reminds her ex that her memory is impossible to shake.

Between Vegas, new music, and even her own radio channel, Carrie Underwood is showing fans exactly why she’s one of country music’s brightest stars — unstoppable, fearless, and always unforgettable.

The 58th Annual CMA Awards brought plenty of star power to Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, but one performance in particular had fans buzzing long after the final note — Thomas Rhett teaming up with Teddy Swims.

The two artists joined forces for a fiery medley of Rhett’s heartfelt “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman” and Swims’ soulful smash hit “Lose Control.” The crowd instantly lit up, singing along, dancing, and cheering as the pair blended country storytelling with soulful powerhouse vocals.

“Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman,” originally written as a love letter to Rhett’s wife Lauren, took on new energy with Swims at his side. Their voices wrapped around each other in perfect harmony, creating a performance that felt both fresh and deeply emotional.

For Teddy Swims, the moment was another milestone in his whirlwind rise to fame. His hit “Lose Control,” which dominated the Billboard Hot 100 and held strong in the Top 10 for nearly a year, proved to be the perfect showcase for his soulful, gospel-infused style. Fans erupted when he launched into the chorus, turning the arena into one big karaoke party.

This wasn’t the first time Rhett and Swims have worked together — their creative partnership dates back to 2020’s “Broke,” and Swims even co-wrote Rhett’s fan-favorite track “Angels (Don’t Always Have Wings).” But their CMA performance marked a turning point, with many comparing the electric collaboration to Chris Stapleton and Justin Timberlake’s unforgettable 2015 CMA moment.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Thomas Rhett Akins (@thomasrhettakins)

Back then, Stapleton’s breakout performance changed the course of his career. While Rhett and Swims are already household names, the magic they created onstage felt just as historic. It wasn’t just a duet — it was a celebration of two genres colliding and two artists pushing each other to new heights.

By the end of the performance, fans were on their feet, cheering and chanting as Rhett and Swims shared a hug. Social media immediately lit up with praise, with many calling it the highlight of the night.

One thing’s for sure: when country charm meets soulful grit, the result is unforgettable. And Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims proved that sometimes the best award a performance can win is the roar of a crowd that never wanted it to end.

Chris LeDoux wasn’t just a country music singer—he was a true cowboy whose love for the rodeo and the open range came alive in every song. Born in Mississippi in 1948, Chris moved around as a child, eventually discovering his passion for rodeo competitions. That passion grew into a remarkable career that blended his two greatest loves: music and rodeo.

A Rodeo Champion
Before his music career took off, Chris was making a name for himself in the rodeo world. In 1976, he became a World Champion Bareback Rider, an achievement that showcased his skill, determination, and cowboy spirit. These real-life experiences later became the foundation for the stories he told through his music.

A Self-Made Musician
Chris started out recording and selling his own albums, traveling to rodeos and shows with a trunk full of CDs. His songs celebrated the cowboy life—wide-open fields, spirited horses, and the hard work it takes to chase your dreams. Fans connected instantly to his authentic voice and vivid storytelling.

Friendship with Garth Brooks
Though Chris already had a loyal fan base among rodeo lovers, his music reached a wider audience when Garth Brooks mentioned him in the hit song “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)”. That shoutout introduced Chris to country fans everywhere. In 1992, he teamed up with Brooks on “Whatcha Gonna Do with a Cowboy,” one of his biggest hits.

Even with growing fame, Chris stayed true to his cowboy roots. His concerts were high-energy experiences, often featuring mechanical bulls and a genuine Western atmosphere, making fans feel like they’d stepped onto a ranch. He also collaborated with other artists, including Toby Keith on “Copenhagen” in 1994 and Jon Bon Jovi on “Bang a Drum” in 1999.

A Lasting Legacy
Chris LeDoux passed away in 2005, but his music and spirit continue to inspire new generations. Fans still celebrate his birthday and revisit his albums to honor the cowboy who brought the rodeo to life through song. He was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame, cementing his bond with the rodeo community.

Chris LeDoux remains a symbol of authenticity, passion, and dedication—a cowboy who captured the heart of the West in every note. His songs remind us of campfires under the stars, the thrill of riding a horse, and the power of chasing your dreams with all your heart.

Carrie Underwood brought her wildly successful Denim & Rhinestones Tour to a heartfelt close this past weekend, wrapping up with a sold-out finale in Seattle, Washington. Fans were treated to an unforgettable performance, and Carrie herself shared her emotions and gratitude ahead of the final show.

In an Instagram story, she reflected on the tour and thanked her fans, band, crew, and tourmate Jimmie Allen:

“I’m sitting in our dressing room before our very last show on the Denim & Rhinestones Tour. It’s bittersweet, but it’s been an incredible run. The fans have been amazing beyond words. Thank you to the band, crew, and Jimmie Allen!”

Carrie called this her “favorite tour” yet, and her emotional message continued:
“I feel very blessed and grateful, and I’m gonna cry. Thank you for supporting me—it’s meant so much.”

Celebrating the Crew and Band

She later shared a video recap of Leg 2 of the tour, highlighting the energy and excitement at every stop:
“So many incredible shows and audiences this year! 🔥 Leg 2 of the #DenimAndRhinestonesTour was one to remember 💜💎.”

Carrie made sure to give credit to her team:
“Words can’t describe how thankful I am to this band and crew who made this show happen night after night 💜. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible, and to all the venue staff who made us feel at home every night. @jimmieallen, your shows were amazing—it was so fun listening to you every night! This tour is unforgettable!”

A Tour to Remember

The tour began on October 15, 2022, in Greenville, South Carolina, and concluded on St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle, supporting her album Denim & Rhinestones, released in June 2022. The 12-track album features hits like Hate My Heart, Ghost Story, Pink Champagne, Crazy Angels, and Velvet Heartbreak.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood)

Carrie also recently released her first-ever “truck song,” Out Of That Truck, co-written with David Garcia and Lydia Vaughn. The breakup anthem showcases her powerhouse vocals as she sings about memories that refuse to fade.

Looking Ahead: Vegas Residency and Awards

After the tour, Carrie will return to Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas for her REFLECTION residency in summer 2023, with 18 new shows added. She’s thrilled to return to her Vegas “home away from home” to perform for audiences from all over the world.

Carrie is also up for two 2023 CMT Music Awards: Video Of The Year for Hate My Heart and Female Video Of The Year for Ghost Story. She will perform during the ceremony, continuing her legacy as the most-awarded artist in CMT history.

Reba McEntire is a true icon in country music, and teaming up with the incredible Lauren Daigle made for a performance to remember. At the Academy of Country Music Awards, the two superstars delivered a heartfelt rendition of Back to God that left the audience completely moved.

The blend of Reba’s signature country twang and Lauren’s soulful Christian music background made the song feel both powerful and uplifting. On stage, their chemistry was undeniable, bringing authenticity and emotion to every note.

Life has its challenges, but it also brings moments of beauty and hope. Back to God is a reminder that when we trust in God, He is always there to guide and heal us.

As 2 Chronicles 7:14 reminds us: “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.” This inspiring message shone through in Reba and Lauren’s unforgettable performance.

At the 2018 Stagecoach Festival, Keith Urban gave fans a performance to remember, teaming up with country legends Dwight Yoakam and Brothers Osborne for an unforgettable version of Fast As You. Seeing three powerhouse artists come together on one stage made for a truly dynamic and thrilling show.

Originally from Keith Urban’s 1999 self-titled album, Fast As You mixes country and rock vibes, with an upbeat tempo and a catchy chorus that perfectly showcase Urban’s guitar skills and stage charisma.

Dwight Yoakam added his classic honky-tonk flair to the mix, his deep, distinctive voice bringing a touch of timeless country to the performance. With hits like Guitars, Cadillacs and A Thousand Miles from Nowhere, Yoakam’s presence instantly elevated the stage.

Brothers Osborne—TJ and John Osborne—brought their unique blend of country and rock, complete with tight harmonies and impressive musicianship. Their energy and style created the perfect balance with Urban and Yoakam, making the collaboration feel fresh and exciting.

This Stagecoach moment perfectly captured the magic of country music festivals, where artists come together to create something special for fans. The crowd loved every second, celebrating the seamless mix of styles and the joy of live music.

More than just a performance, it was a celebration of country music itself—a fusion of old and new, tradition and innovation, all coming together for one truly memorable experience.

At the 2021 Tornado Benefit Concert, Alan Jackson delivered one of the night’s most touching moments with his heartfelt performance of “The Older I Get.” The event, created to raise funds and hope for communities devastated by severe tornadoes, became even more meaningful as Jackson poured raw emotion into every lyric. His voice carried both sorrow and comfort, reminding everyone that even in hardship, there is room for strength, gratitude, and healing.

A Song of Reflection and Resilience
“The Older I Get” is more than just a song about aging—it’s about perspective. With lyrics like “the older I get, the more I pray” and “the more thankful I feel,” Jackson captures the quiet wisdom that comes with time. Instead of mourning the past, the song leans into acceptance, faith, and the simple joys of life. That message of hope fit perfectly with the spirit of the benefit concert.

Alan’s Signature Style
Known for his warm voice and timeless storytelling, Jackson gave “The Older I Get” a special intimacy that resonated deeply with the crowd. His effortless delivery stripped away any excess, leaving only sincerity and truth. Paired with gentle guitar, soft piano, and subtle percussion, the song felt like a conversation with an old friend—calming, honest, and deeply human.

Why It Resonates
Fans and critics alike have embraced “The Older I Get” as one of Jackson’s most personal songs. For many, it’s a reminder to slow down, let go of grudges, and find peace in life’s ups and downs. At the tornado benefit, that message rang especially true, offering comfort to those facing loss while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.

Alan Jackson’s performance wasn’t just music—it was a gift of compassion and a moment of shared healing. In that quiet, powerful delivery, he reminded everyone that even in the hardest of times, gratitude and love can carry us through.