JUST IN: Lainey Wilson Named Sole Host of the 2025 CMA Awards
The Country Music Association has made it official: Lainey Wilson will step onto one of the biggest stages in country music this fall — not just as a performer or nominee, but as the sole host of the 2025 CMA Awards.
It’s a history-making moment for the reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year. Known for her powerhouse vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and fearless authenticity, Wilson now adds hosting duties to her ever-growing list of achievements.
Traditionally, the CMA stage has been led by duos or rotating hosts, from Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood’s long-running partnership to recent years that leaned on multiple emcees. Wilson’s solo role marks a bold new chapter — and a clear signal of her rising status as one of country music’s defining voices.
In a statement released this morning, CMA producers praised Wilson’s charisma, relatability, and unshakable connection to fans. “Lainey embodies the heart of country music right now. Her journey, her artistry, and her voice — both on stage and off — make her the perfect choice to guide us through this year’s show,” the announcement read.
Fans are already buzzing across social media. Many are calling it “long overdue,” pointing to Wilson’s meteoric rise over the past three years, with hits like “Heart Like a Truck” and “Watermelon Moonshine” dominating radio, while her fiery performances on major tours have cemented her as one of the most magnetic live acts in the genre.
The 2025 CMA Awards will air live from Nashville on November 12, 2025, promising a night that blends tradition with fresh energy. With Lainey Wilson at the helm, the ceremony is expected to spotlight not just the stars of today, but also the future of country music she so powerfully represents.