Quick Read
- Lainey Wilson won Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year, and Female Vocalist of the Year at the 2025 CMA Awards.
- Vince Gill received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, honored by tributes from George Strait and Brandi Carlile.
- Zach Top was named New Artist of the Year.
- Ella Langley and Riley Green won Single of the Year and Music Video of the Year for “you look like you love me.”
Lainey Wilson Steals the Show at 2025 CMA Awards
The 59th Annual Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, held in Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, was a night of milestones, emotional tributes, and fresh talent breaking through. The ceremony, hosted for the second consecutive year by Lainey Wilson, saw the rising star transform into the night’s biggest winner, further cementing her presence in country music’s highest echelon.
Lainey Wilson took home three of the evening’s most coveted trophies: Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year for her acclaimed record “Whirlwind,” and Female Vocalist of the Year. As she opened the show with a vibrant medley of her hits, it became clear that Wilson wasn’t just hosting—she was making history. Her album, “Whirlwind,” resonated with fans and critics alike, combining classic storytelling with a modern twist. The crowd’s roaring applause as she accepted Entertainer of the Year said it all: Wilson’s star is only rising.
Vince Gill Honored with Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award
The evening’s emotional highlight arrived when Vince Gill was presented with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. The award, reserved for those who have made an indelible mark on country music, was introduced by none other than George Strait. Strait praised Gill’s trailblazing career and lasting influence. Brandi Carlile then delivered a stirring tribute performance, capturing the warmth and respect Gill commands across generations.
Gill, ever the humble storyteller, reflected on his journey with a blend of gratitude and humor: “In the history of this award, I think it’s been given to maybe 10 people…and that list of people is astounding. And I’m pretty confident I’m the only one that’s ever won this award that’s never smoked any weed.” With nods to the Grand Ole Opry, his family, and wife Amy Grant, Gill’s acceptance speech was a masterclass in humility and heart.
Breakout Wins and Notable Newcomers
While Wilson and Gill captured much of the spotlight, the 2025 CMA Awards also showcased the genre’s vibrant new voices. Zach Top clinched New Artist of the Year, signaling a bright future ahead. The collaborative single “you look like you love me” by Ella Langley and Riley Green scored Single of the Year and Music Video of the Year, propelling Langley further into the country mainstream.
The nominations this year reflected both tradition and evolution. Artists like Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, and Morgan Wallen featured heavily in the top categories, but it was Wilson’s night to shine. Megan Moroney, another rising star, was nominated in several major categories and continues to impress with her storytelling prowess, notably for her album “Am I Okay?” and the music video of the same name.
Memorable Performances and Community Spirit
The Bridgestone Arena buzzed with energy as performances from Kenny Chesney, Chris Stapleton, Kelsea Ballerini, and Old Dominion kept the audience on their feet. The event wasn’t just a showcase of award winners—it was a celebration of the genre’s diversity and unity. With legends and newcomers sharing the stage, the ceremony embodied country music’s enduring tradition of mentorship and collaboration.
Other notable winners included Brooks & Dunn, Brothers Osborne, and Dan + Shay in the vocal duo and group categories, while the Musical Event of the Year category highlighted the genre’s collaborative spirit, with entries featuring combinations like Post Malone with Blake Shelton and Cody Johnson with Carrie Underwood.
Complete List of Major 2025 CMA Award Winners
- Entertainer of the Year: Lainey Wilson
- Album of the Year: “Whirlwind” – Lainey Wilson
- Female Vocalist of the Year: Lainey Wilson
- New Artist of the Year: Zach Top
- Single of the Year: “you look like you love me” – Ella Langley & Riley Green
- Music Video of the Year: “you look like you love me” – Ella Langley & Riley Green
- Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award: Vince Gill
For the full list of nominees and winners, visit the Country Music Association website or see coverage on Good Morning America.
The 2025 CMA Awards illustrated a dynamic crossroads for country music—honoring its legends while amplifying bold new voices. Lainey Wilson’s sweep was more than a personal triumph; it signaled a generational shift, while Vince Gill’s lifetime honor reminded everyone of the genre’s enduring roots. The night’s energy, camaraderie, and diversity point to a vibrant future for country music, where storytelling and authenticity remain at the heart of its appeal.