The CMA Fest 2025 in Nashville wrapped up earlier this month with country music fans flocking to the heart of Tennessee to celebrate the best in country music. From June 5–8, the annual festival brought together top country stars, rising talents, and music lovers from all over the world for an unforgettable experience. The festival’s impressive lineup featured major artists and emerging acts, creating a memorable event for fans of all ages.
Major Performances and Highlights
The CMA Fest is known for its diverse and star-studded lineup, and this year was no exception. Some of the biggest names in country music took to the stage, including Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, and Kelsea Ballerini. Their performances captivated the audience, making the festival one of the most anticipated country music events of the year.
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Jason Aldean brought high energy to his set, playing some of his classic hits, including “Dirt Road Anthem” and “She’s Country.” Aldean’s performance was a favorite for many, as he continues to be one of the top acts in country music today.
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Kelsea Ballerini showed off her vocal prowess with a set that included songs like “Half of My Hometown” and “I Quit Drinking.” Ballerini continues to shine as one of the genre’s most influential female voices.
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Luke Bryan, a staple of the festival, delighted fans with his signature dance-worthy anthems, including “Country Girl (Shake It for Me)” and “Play It Again.” His energetic stage presence made for one of the most memorable sets of the festival.
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Blake Shelton, known for his charismatic personality, brought some of his most beloved tracks, like “God’s Country” and “Honey Bee,” to the stage, further cementing his place in country music royalty.
Beyond the heavy-hitters, the festival also provided a stage for some of the most exciting new artists in country music, such as Lainey Wilson and Zach Bryan, both of whom brought their distinctive sounds to the stage and earned standing ovations for their performances.
The festival also featured a variety of other performances across multiple stages, including shows from Brooks & Dunn, Darius Rucker, and Maddie & Tae. With over 30 performances during the four-day event, there was something for every country music fan, whether they were into traditional sounds or more contemporary hits.
Broadcast Special on ABC: CMA Fest Comes to Your Living Room
For those who couldn’t make it to Nashville, ABC brought the festival’s excitement into homes across the country. The network aired a three-hour CMA Fest special on June 26, 2025, showcasing some of the festival’s most memorable moments. Hosted by Cody Johnson and Ashley McBryde, the special featured highlights from the four-day event, giving viewers a chance to relive the magic of the festival from the comfort of their own homes.
The broadcast included performances from major artists like Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, and Kelsea Ballerini, as well as intimate behind-the-scenes moments and interviews with the artists. Fans who missed the live event were able to catch the show on ABC or stream it on platforms like Hulu and ABC.com, providing access to a broader audience.
CMA Fest’s Impact on Country Music and Nashville
CMA Fest isn’t just a celebration of country music—it’s also an economic boost for Nashville, with fans from across the United States and abroad visiting the city for the event. The festival brings millions of dollars in tourism revenue to the region each year, benefiting local businesses, restaurants, and hotels.
Additionally, the festival plays a vital role in promoting the country music genre and supporting new artists. Every year, emerging talents are given the opportunity to perform alongside country music legends, gaining valuable exposure and expanding their fan base. The 2025 festival saw performances from up-and-coming artists like Jordan Davis, Lainey Wilson, and Megan Moroney, proving that the future of country music is in good hands.
For fans of country music, CMA Fest is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of the community and culture that defines the genre. Whether it’s the live performances, the artist meet-and-greets, or the casual gatherings at local honky-tonks, CMA Fest remains one of the most significant events in the country music calendar.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that CMA Fest will continue to evolve while staying true to its roots. With plans for future festivals already in the works, fans can expect more amazing performances and unforgettable experiences for years to come.