Making History: Lainey Wilson to Host 59th Annual CMA Awards Solo
Country singer Lainey Wilson is set to make history as the solo host of the upcoming 59th annual Country Music Awards on Nov. 19. She will be the third woman to take on this role, following in the footsteps of Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire. The event will be held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville and will be broadcast live on ABC at 7 p.m. CT. The night promises to be filled with performances, presenters, and special guests as the top stars in country music compete for prestigious awards.
Lainey Wilson, a 33-year-old country singer from Baskin, LA, is known for hits like "Watermelon Moonshine," "Heart Like A Truck," and "4x4xU." She has also made a name for herself as an actress, appearing in the TV show "Yellowstone" as Abby. Wilson gained recognition around 2020 with her hit song "Things a Man Oughta Know," and her career received a significant boost from her involvement in "Yellowstone." She has achieved numerous accolades, including winning four awards at the 60th annual ACMS and being inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in June 2024.
Lainey Wilson has a successful track record at the CMA Awards, having won nine awards to date. In 2023, she took home Entertainer of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year, followed by another win for Female Vocalist of the Year and Music Video of the Year in 2024. While she co-hosted the ceremony in 2024 alongside Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, this year marks her first solo hosting gig at the prestigious event. Wilson is also a top nominee at the 2025 CMA Awards, with six nominations, tying with Megan Moroney and Ella Langley for the most nominations.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming CMA Awards, Lainey Wilson remains grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have come her way. She expressed her excitement about the journey and the unexpected moments she has encountered along the way. While she has not revealed much about her performance at the awards show, Wilson hinted at showcasing her fiery and sassy side, promising a fun and entertaining evening for viewers.