Lainey Wilson, the rising country music star, had some unexpected advice showered upon her by the legendary Reba McEntire ahead of her hosting duties at the 2025 CMA Awards. The talented singer reached out to the five-time host, McEntire, for just “one piece of advice,” but McEntire surprised her with a whole list of tips. Wilson, set to host the prestigious event at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 19, expressed her pride and joy at the opportunity during a press conference on Sunday, Nov. 16. She acknowledged the big responsibility that comes with hosting and shared how she doesn’t take it lightly.
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Wilson, who had previously co-hosted the show in 2024, alongside Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, was excited to step into the spotlight solo this year. During the press conference, she shared that she had texted McEntire the night before, seeking some valuable advice for the upcoming event. While Wilson expected McEntire to suggest being herself and having fun, she was surprised when McEntire sent her a comprehensive list of advice. Wilson joked about the situation, highlighting that she had only asked for one piece of advice.
The talented singer, known for hits like “Heart Like a Truck,” expressed her gratitude at being chosen to host the CMA Awards and reflected on how she had grown up watching the event like it was the Super Bowl. With six nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, and being set to perform at the ceremony, Wilson is looking forward to a night full of excitement and celebration. She acknowledged the honour of hosting for a second year and expressed her eagerness to celebrate the genre that has given her so much.
The 59th Annual CMA Awards will be broadcast live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 19, on ABC, with streaming available the following day on Hulu. The event promises to be a star-studded affair with top nominees and performers gracing the stage. Wilson’s journey from a co-host to a solo host reflects her growing popularity and influence in the country music scene. Her interactions with McEntire add a personal touch to her hosting experience, showing the camaraderie and support within the music industry.
As Wilson prepares to take on this important role, fans and critics alike are anticipating a memorable and entertaining show. The CMA Awards have a rich history of showcasing the best talents in country music, and Wilson’s involvement as a host and performer adds a fresh and dynamic energy to the event. With her infectious charisma and impressive vocal abilities, Wilson is poised to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression at the 2025 CMA Awards.
In conclusion, Lainey Wilson’s journey from seeking advice from Reba McEntire to preparing to host the prestigious CMA Awards reflects her dedication and passion for music. Her humble approach and genuine excitement at being chosen for this role are evident, and fans can expect a night filled with incredible performances and heartfelt moments. Wilson’s experience highlights the camaraderie and community spirit within the country music industry, making the upcoming event a must-watch for music enthusiasts around the world.