CMA Awards’ First Rollout of Performers Includes Megan Moroney, Shaboozey, Ella Langley, BigXthaPlug, Zach Top and More

Nashville is gearing up for a glittering night of music as the Country Music Association has revealed the first wave of artists set to take the stage at the 59th CMA Awards. The top contenders, each with six nominations, are Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, and Ella Langley, while Zach Top follows closely with five nods. This initial roster, announced on Thursday, also includes Shaboozey, BigXthaPlug, Luke Combs, Tucker Wetmore, and Stephen Wilson Jr. The event will be broadcast live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on November 19.

Fans were given a detailed look at the performance schedule for the ABC telecast. Ella Langley will debut her new single “Choosin’ Texas,” and Megan Moroney will perform “6 Months Later,” a song released in June ahead of a full album slated for early 2026. Zach Top is scheduled to sing “Guitar,” and new artist nominee Tucker Wetmore will present “Wind Up Missin’ You.” Stephen Wilson Jr., also nominated for new artist, has a dual role: a solo rendition of Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” and a duet with Shaboozey on “Took a Walk,” a track featured in the recent film “The Long Walk.” Additionally, BigXthaPlug and Luke Combs will unite for a live performance of their collaboration “Pray Hard.” The CMA has indicated that more performers will be confirmed in the days ahead.

Lainey Wilson’s presence is especially noteworthy this year. In addition to being a top nominee and performer, she will serve as the sole host for the entire three-hour ceremony. This marks a major progression for Wilson, who co-hosted last year’s event alongside Luke Bryan and former NFL star Peyton Manning. Her elevated role underscores her rising stature within the industry. As music critic Sarah Jenkins observed, “Hosting the CMAs while competing in multiple categories is rare—it shows Wilson’s unique ability to balance artistic credibility with mainstream appeal.”

The CMA Awards have celebrated country music’s finest since 1967, recognizing both established stars and breakthrough acts. This year’s ceremony returns to Bridgestone Arena, a 20,000-seat venue that has hosted the event since 2006. The broadcast will air live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET on November 19. For those unable to watch live, a streaming version will be available on Hulu beginning the following day, offering another chance to experience one of country music’s most anticipated nights.