The 2025 CMA Fest has left fans in awe with surprise performances from renowned artists like Noah Kahan, Trace Adkins, and Jelly Roll. This year’s festival, held in Nashville from Thursday, June 5, to Sunday, June 8, showcased a star-studded lineup that took the audience by storm. Despite some inclement weather, the Nissan Stadium main stage witnessed unforgettable moments as headliners brought out special guests to elevate the musical experience. The festival was later broadcast as a three-hour special on June 26 at 8 p.m. on ABC, with streaming available on Hulu the next day.
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Noah Kahan and Kelsea Ballerini kicked off the excitement with their captivating duet “Cowboys Cry Too” and a rendition of Kahan’s popular track “Stick Season.” Their seamless chemistry and harmonies resonated with the crowd, setting the tone for a weekend filled with incredible collaborations. Nashville’s hometown hero, Jelly Roll, took the stage alongside Shaboozey, delivering an electrifying performance of their hit track “Amen” that left the audience wanting more.
The festival continued to surprise and delight as Christian-country crossover artist Brandon Lake joined forces with Jelly Roll for a powerful performance of their collaborative track “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” The unexpected appearance took place on the smaller Nissan Platform Stage, showcasing the diverse talents present at CMA Fest. Country music icons, Trace Adkins and Blake Shelton, brought the party to life with a dynamic joint performance on Saturday night, treating fans to hits like “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” and “Hell Right.”
Megan Moroney’s journey from the Spotlight Stage in 2022 to headlining Nissan Stadium in 2025 was a poignant moment for the singer. In a heartwarming gesture, she invited her brother, Connor Moroney, to join her on stage, creating a special family moment as they performed her smash hit “Tennessee Orange.” The festival’s spirit of collaboration was further exemplified during Bailey Zimmerman’s set, where he surprised fans with a performance alongside BigXthaPlug, showcasing their viral hit track “All the Way.”
CMA Fest 2025 was not just a celebration of music but also a testament to the enduring spirit of country music and the community it fosters. The festival brought together artists from various genres and backgrounds, uniting fans in a shared love for live music and unforgettable performances. As the festival concluded, fans were left with lasting memories of a weekend filled with surprises, exceptional talent, and the magic that only CMA Fest can deliver.
The 2025 CMA Fest will be remembered for its stellar lineup, surprise collaborations, and unforgettable moments that showcased the best of country music. As fans eagerly anticipate next year’s festival, the echoes of this year’s performances will continue to resonate, underscoring the timeless appeal of live music and the connections it creates among artists and fans alike.