2025 CMA Awards: Winners List Revealed
The 2025 CMA Awards, held on a Wednesday night, showcased remarkable achievements in country music, with Lainey Wilson as the standout winner. She claimed the prestigious title of Entertainer of the Year, alongside two other major awards: Album of the Year for “Whirlwind” and Female Vocalist of the Year.
Key Winners from the 2025 CMA Awards
- Lainey Wilson: Entertainer of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year (Whirlwind)
- Cody Johnson: Best Male Vocalist
- The Red Clay Strays: Vocal Group of the Year
- Ella Langley & Riley Green: Single of the Year, Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year for “You Look Like You Love Me”
- Zach Top: Best New Artist
- Brooks & Dunn: Vocal Duo of the Year (16th win)
Surprising Upsets
This year’s awards featured several surprising wins among traditionally successful nominees. Cody Johnson finally dethroned Chris Stapleton to claim Best Male Vocalist. The Red Clay Strays grabbed Vocal Group of the Year, breaking Old Dominion’s stronghold in that category.
Ella Langley stood out early with three wins out of six nominations. Along with her duet partner Riley Green, she celebrated multiple wins for their collaboration on “You Look Like You Love Me.”
Memorable Moments and Performances
As the night’s host, Lainey Wilson entertained the audience and celebrated fellow artists. She expressed her joy over hosting, sharing heartfelt reflections about her journey and her connection to country music.
Other performances included Kenny Chesney, who energized the crowd with a medley of hits, and a tribute to Vince Gill by Brandi Carlile and Patty Loveless.
Complete Winners’ List
| Category | Nominees | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| Entertainer of the Year | Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson | Lainey Wilson |
| Single of the Year | Various | You Look Like You Love Me (Ella Langley & Riley Green) |
| Album of the Year | Various | Whirlwind (Lainey Wilson) |
| Song of the Year | Various | You Look Like You Love Me (Ella Langley & Riley Green) |
| Best New Artist | Various | Zach Top |
| Vocal Duo of the Year | Various | Brooks & Dunn |
| Musician of the Year | Paul Franklin | Paul Franklin |
The 2025 CMA Awards ceremony was a memorable night of celebration, showcasing the diverse talents within country music. With surprises and heartfelt performances, the event highlighted the genre’s ongoing evolution and connection with fans.
