The CMA Awards 2025 delivered everything fans hoped for and more — glitz, glamour, unexpected wins, and emotional performances. As one of the biggest nights in country music, the event once again lived up to its legendary status, drawing in the genre’s biggest names and rising stars alike.
From Lainey Wilson’s domination to Luke Bryan’s electrifying return as Entertainer of the Year, this year’s ceremony was packed with surprises and standout moments. Whether you missed the show or want to relive the highlights, we’ve got you covered with the full list of winners, top performances, and the most unforgettable red carpet looks.
CMA Awards 2025 – Full Winners List
This year’s winners reflect both the legacy and the fresh direction of country music. From industry veterans to breakthrough artists, the awards recognized a broad spectrum of talent.
Major Categories & Winners
| Category | Winner |
| Entertainer of the Year | Luke Bryan |
| Female Vocalist of the Year | Lainey Wilson |
| Male Vocalist of the Year | Luke Bryan |
| Album of the Year |
“Leather” – Cody Johnson
|
| Song of the Year |
“Whiskey in the Wind” – Lainey Wilson
|
| Single of the Year |
“Texas Hold ‘Em” – Beyoncé
|
| New Artist of the Year | Megan Moroney |
| Musical Event of the Year |
Luke Combs & Miranda Lambert
|
| Music Video of the Year |
“Next Thing You Know” – Jordan Davis
|
| Global Country Artist Award | Josh Ross |
The biggest surprise of the night? Beyoncé taking home Single of the Year for her country crossover hit, a historic moment that sparked massive social buzz and signaled the genre’s ever-expanding boundaries.
Best Performances That Stole the Show
Lainey Wilson’s Emotional High Note
Coming off a stellar year, Lainey Wilson delivered one of the night’s most powerful performances with “Whiskey in the Wind.” As the newly crowned Female Vocalist of the Year, her vocals were raw, soulful, and full of passion. The crowd gave her a well-deserved standing ovation.
Luke Bryan’s Entertainer Energy
Back on top as Entertainer of the Year, Luke Bryan brought the house down with a medley of hits, including his latest single “Kickin’ Up Dust.” His showmanship and charisma reminded fans why he’s one of country music’s most enduring stars.
Beyoncé’s Genre-Bending Moment
Taking the CMA stage for the first time, Beyoncé stunned in a cowboy-inspired ensemble while performing “Texas Hold ‘Em.” Her seamless blend of country roots and pop excellence left a lasting impression and marked a significant cultural moment for the genre.
Newcomer Megan Moroney
Megan Moroney, winner of New Artist of the Year, charmed viewers with her heartfelt song “Girl in the Mirror.” Her authenticity and vocal purity solidified her as a rising star to watch in 2025.
Red Carpet Moments That Turned Heads
The CMA Awards 2025 red carpet was just as thrilling as the performances — full of bold fashion choices, elegant gowns, and cowboy chic.
Table: Top Red Carpet Highlights
| Celebrity | Style Moment |
| Nicole Kidman |
Sleek black gown with minimalist jewelry — pure elegance supporting Keith Urban
|
| Lainey Wilson |
Custom embroidered jumpsuit with fringe detail — bold and country-cool
|
| Megan Moroney |
Silver sequin dress with western boots — fun and fierce
|
| Luke Bryan |
Classic tux with a modern twist — sharp and sophisticated
|
| Beyoncé |
Rhinestone-studded cowboy outfit — headline-stealing debut
|
Fashion critics and fans alike praised the stars for embracing classic country aesthetics while mixing in modern luxury trends, creating a perfect visual backdrop for the evening.
Unforgettable Moments and Surprises
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Luke Bryan Surprises Josh Ross:
One of the most heartwarming moments occurred on the red carpet when Luke Bryan surprised Canadian artist Josh Ross with the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award, recognizing his international success and contributions to country music. -
Simone Biles Steals the Spotlight:
Olympic legend Simone Biles made her CMA debut, dazzling in a metallic dress while presenting an award. Her presence added a touch of crossover celebrity star power and thrilled fans on social media. -
Tribute to Toby Keith:
The CMA also paid tribute to the late Toby Keith, with performances by Carrie Underwood, Jason Aldean, and Blake Shelton, drawing tears and applause from the audience.
Must-See Photos from the Night
While we can’t embed all the visual magic here, you can view full galleries from the CMA Awards 2025 on:
A Big Year Ahead for Country Music
The CMA Awards 2025 wasn’t just about honoring achievements — it was a showcase of where country music is headed. With genre-blending artists like Beyoncé, international recognition through stars like Josh Ross, and new talent like Megan Moroney, the future of country is bright, diverse, and exciting.
Final Thoughts
From groundbreaking wins and emotional tributes to high-octane performances and fashion-forward statements, the CMA Awards 2025 was a night to remember. For long-time fans and new listeners alike, it was a perfect reminder of country music’s power to evolve, inspire, and entertain.
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