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Here are all the winners from the 2025 CMA Awards


Cropped view of artist playing acoustic guitar in action.
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A cropped image of a male musician playing on acoustic guitar.

Nashville’s biggest night rocks

Country music fans flooded Nashville as the 59th CMA Awards lit up the city. Fans of all ages gathered to celebrate their favorite stars, and excitement filled the air as lights, music, and energy combined to create an unforgettable evening that honored country music’s biggest hits.

Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson dominated the spotlight, walking away with multiple awards. Their performances thrilled fans and reminded everyone why country music remains so popular.

Lainey Wilson performing on stage.

Lainey Wilson shines bright

Lainey Wilson stole the show, winning entertainer of the year, a title that cements her status as one of country music’s top stars. Her album Whirlwind also won album of the year, showing she dominates both performance and recording categories.

As the emcee, Wilson added humor and warmth to the evening, engaging the audience and keeping the night lively. Her charm and connection with fans made her a standout personality, showing why she’s becoming one of Nashville’s most beloved figures.

Musical performance on stage

Ella Langley’s viral hit wins

Ella Langley’s song “You Look Like You Love Me” became a viral sensation, winning both single and song of the year. Her collaboration with Riley Green helped the track climb quickly on streaming charts, making it a fan favorite across social media platforms.

The song’s catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with audiences nationwide. Langley’s energetic performance and connection with fans on stage showed that she’s a rising star who is not only talented but also relatable.

Cropped view of artist playing acoustic guitar in action.

Zach Top’s big night

Zach Top earned new artist of the year, marking a significant milestone early in his career. Holding a can of Coors while accepting the award, he celebrated casually, showing his approachable personality and the excitement surrounding his recognition by the CMA Awards.

Top beat stiff competition from other emerging stars, proving that new talent is thriving in country music. Fans are already eager to hear more of his music after his first breakout success. His win represents a fresh voice that promises to bring new energy to the country music scene.

Morgan Wallen performing on stage.

Morgan Wallen’s surprising night

After winning entertainer of the year last year, Morgan Wallen surprisingly left empty handed this year. His album I’m The Problem was still one of the most successful albums of any genre this year, proving he remains a dominant force despite the CMA results.

The competitive nature of the CMA Awards shows how even top artists face tough nights. Fans still celebrated Wallen’s achievements, recognizing his impact on country music. His presence in the nominations confirmed that he continues to shape the genre.

Brandon Coleman of The Red Clay Strays plays before a live audience.

Red Clay Strays break records

The Red Clay Strays ended Old Dominion’s seven year streak for vocal group of the year. Their unexpected win demonstrates how new and innovative groups can disrupt long standing traditions in country music, giving fans fresh talent to celebrate.

The group’s award reflected their hard work, chemistry, and ability to create music that resonates. Fans cheered as they accepted the prize, showing appreciation for their unique sound. The win marks a new chapter for vocal groups in country music.

A performance with fans enjoying it.

Star studded performances excite

The CMA Awards were filled with performances that energized both the live audience and viewers at home. From Riley Green to Lainey Wilson, the night offered incredible musical moments that highlighted the talent across the genre and kept fans engaged throughout the show.

Each performance brought something unique to the stage, combining heartfelt lyrics, strong vocals, and memorable choreography. Country music’s live energy shone through, demonstrating why fans love attending or watching the awards.

A singer is singing with a microphone in her hand.

Female stars take center stage

Female vocalists dominated the CMA Awards this year, with Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, and Lainey Wilson. Their performances highlighted strong vocals, emotional depth, and the growing influence of women in country music, capturing audience attention.

These wins also reflect broader changes in the genre, where female artists are gaining recognition and reshaping country music. Fans responded with enthusiasm to their performances, showing appreciation for their artistry.

Luke Combs performs at the 2018 CMA Fest.

Male vocalists make their mark

Cody Johnson won Male Vocalist of the Year at the 2025 CMA Awards, Luke Combs and others were nominees and delivered notable performances. Cody Johnson’s win was widely reported across major outlets.

Their wins and nominations show that strong vocals and authentic storytelling remain at the heart of country music. Each artist brought energy, charisma, and memorable musical moments to the stage.

brooks and dunn

Duo and group magic

Brooks & Dunn won vocal duo of the year, while Red Clay Strays captured the vocal group award. Both wins celebrate collaboration, harmony, and chemistry, showing how working together can create unforgettable music experiences for fans.

Country music thrives on partnerships, and these groups demonstrated why teamwork matters on stage. Their performances combined talent with stage presence, leaving audiences impressed. Fans love hearing multiple voices blend, creating musical moments that solo artists alone can’t achieve.

Riley Green performs in Hollywood.

Music videos and hits

Ella Langley and Riley Green won music video of the year for “You Look Like You Love Me,” showing how visuals enhance storytelling in country music. Megan Moroney’s Am I Okay? also became a fan favorite, connecting audiences to her lyrics and emotions.

Music videos give fans a deeper way to experience songs, adding imagery to lyrics that helps convey emotion. The combination of visuals and sound strengthens the bond between artists and audiences, making each song more memorable and shareable.

If you love seeing country artists shine in new spaces, you’ll enjoy how country music is dominating Hollywood awards.

Shaboozey at an event.

Celebrating new talent

The CMA Awards highlighted the next generation of stars, with Zach Top and Shaboozey earning recognition as fresh voices. Zach’s win signaled that country music continues to evolve and embrace diverse, innovative talent that appeals to new audiences.

New artists are bringing fresh perspectives, sounds, and stories to the genre. Fans can expect more hits and creative performances from these rising stars, ensuring that country music remains exciting and relevant.

Want more award season highlights? Check out all the big winners at the 2025 Tony Awards.

Got a new favorite after this year’s CMA lineup? Drop their name in comments and hit the like button.

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