“Billboard” Brought The Red Clay Strays, Ashley Cooke, The Band Perry and More to Luke Combs’ Category 10 During CMA Fest 2026

**Billboard’s Country Live Series Delights Fans in Nashville**

The vibrant heart of Nashville resonated with melodies and harmonies as Billboard hosted its much-anticipated Country Live concert series over two exciting nights. Held at Luke Combs’ impressive venue, Category 10, the event showcased some of the genre’s most talented artists, providing attendees with an intimate experience during the CMA Fest.

On June 4, 2026, the first night kicked off with a headline performance by The Red Clay Strays. This group, renowned for their energetic presence, offered an exhilarating start to the festivities. Among the supporting acts were accomplished artists such as Carly Pearce, Chase Rice, Corey Kent, Drew Baldridge, and Hunter Hayes, ensuring a line-up brimming with talent.

Carly Pearce made a notable surprise appearance, with the announcement made only hours before her performance. She demonstrated her impressive vocal range with songs like “Truck on Fire,” “What He Didn’t Do,” and “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” reinforcing her reputation as a formidable force in country music. Her contribution to the event added an extra layer of excitement for fans in attendance.

One of the highlights of the evening was Drew Baldridge, who not only entertained the crowd but also shared the news of his upcoming album, FARM FAITH FAMILY. He took the opportunity to debut a new single, “Diesel and Dirt,” much to the crowd’s enthusiasm. This moment illustrated the spirit of the event, with emerging artists engaging directly with their supporters.

As the first night concluded, The Red Clay Strays took to the stage for their second-ever performance on Broadway, delivering fan favourites like “Wanna Be Loved” and “No One Else Like Me.” The crowd’s energy indicated their appreciation for the band’s unique sound and dynamic performance style, setting a high bar for the subsequent night.

The following evening, June 5, saw Tucker Wetmore headline the show, continuing the momentum built the previous night. He was joined by a talented array of support acts, including Alana Springsteen, Ashley Cooke, and Stella Lefty. The anticipation was palpable as fans awaited what the night had in store.

During this second night, a standout moment occurred when Lefty surprisingly welcomed Dan + Shay to the stage for a rendition of their hit single “Tequila.” The unexpected collaboration electrified the audience and exemplified the event’s commitment to creating memorable experiences. Furthermore, comedian Matt Rife made an appearance alongside Ashley Cooke, adding a layer of light-heartedness to the proceedings with their steamy duet of “Baby Blues.”

Notable performances continued throughout the night, including Kaitlin Butts’ powerful rendition of Kesha’s “Hunt You Down,” a personal favourite that she’s recorded her own version of. The evening also featured an entertaining performance by the Tennessee Titans’ Blue Crew, adding a local flavour to the celebration of country music.

As the festival drew to a close, Tucker Wetmore serenaded the crowd with heartfelt tracks including “Proving Me Right,” “Wind Up Missin’ You,” and “3,2,1.” Following the main event, attendees were treated to an after-party where Avery Anna’s alter ego, Lil Debbie, made a surprise appearance, providing fans with yet another memorable experience from the two-day concert series.

With numerous events vying for attention during CMA Fest, Billboard’s Country Live series successfully carved out a niche for itself. The combination of established stars and rising talents, along with the inclusive atmosphere, made it an essential stop for country music enthusiasts. The event not only celebrated the genre but also fostered a sense of community among fans and artists alike.

In summarising the event, Billboard’s Country Live concert series proved to be a highlight during the bustling CMA Fest weekend, coupling exceptional musical performances with the warm, inviting spirit of Nashville’s country music scene. As attendees departed, it was clear that the event had fulfilled its promise of offering an unforgettable experience for all who attended.