At the recent CMA Awards, held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, Lainey Wilson emerged as the night’s biggest winner, sweeping several major categories. She clinched the coveted Entertainer of the Year award in only her second year of nominations, and her first ever nod for the top prize. Wilson also took home awards for Album of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year, along with Music Video of the Year and Music Event of the Year for her collaboration with Hardy.
The evening began with Luke Combs winning the first two on-air awards for his cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” taking home both Single of the Year and Song of the Year. Although Chapman was not present, she expressed her gratitude via a statement read by presenter Sara Evans, acknowledging the honor received by her song 35 years after its release. Combs, visibly moved, thanked Chapman for her timeless creation.
In the category of new artists, Jelly Roll stood out and was named New Artist of the Year. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Jelly Roll acknowledged his competitors, particularly noting Zach Bryan’s impact in the industry. His speech, filled with gratitude and inspiration, resonated with the audience as he emphasized the importance of looking ahead.
Chris Stapleton continued his streak in the Male Vocalist category, winning for the seventh time. In his acceptance, Stapleton expressed his humility and dedicated the award to his wife, Morgane, and to his late friend and former bandmate, Mike Henderson.
Brothers Osborne claimed the Vocal Duo of the Year for the sixth consecutive time, while Old Dominion secured the Group of the Year award, also for the sixth year running.
The show featured dynamic performances, starting with Jelly Roll who surprised the audience by bringing out Wynonna Judd for a powerful rendition of “Need a Favor.” Morgan Wallen and Eric Church delivered a memorable duet of “Man Made a Bar,” and Wallen later joined K. Michelle for a tribute performance to Wynonna, singing “Love Can Build a Bridge” by the Judds.
Additional highlights included a medley of country classics by Post Malone and Morgan Wallen, and an all-star tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett featuring Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Zac Brown, and Buffett’s longtime band member Mac McAnally.
The performances from the evening are available on YouTube, and the full show will be accessible on Hulu starting Thursday. With Lainey Wilson leading all nominees and Jelly Roll following close behind, the CMAs once again celebrated the best in country music with a night full of honors and memorable moments.
