Home / Arts and Entertainment / Lainey Wilson Shines as First Solo Female CMA Host Since '91
Lainey Wilson Shines as First Solo Female CMA Host Since '91
20 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Lainey Wilson hosts the 59th CMA Awards, a first for a solo woman since 1991.
- She performed a medley of country hits, duetting with music icons.
- Wilson expressed excitement and humor about hosting her peers.
Lainey Wilson took center stage at the 59th CMA Awards, not just as a nominee but as the first solo female host since Reba McEntire in 1991. Her opening monologue in Nashville's Bridgestone Arena was followed by an electrifying musical medley, celebrating country music's biggest hits.
Joined by artists like Keith Urban and Little Big Town, Wilson performed iconic songs such as "White Horse" and "Girl Crush." She enthusiastically shared the stage with artists like Gretchen Wilson and Miranda Lambert, creating memorable moments. The medley culminated with a surprise guitar solo from Keith Urban, adding to the night's excitement.
Wilson, who received six nominations, expressed her honor and slight disbelief at hosting solo. She shared her eagerness to engage with her peers, humorously noting her desire to "poke fun" at them. The 59th annual CMA Awards aired live from Nashville on ABC and streamed on Hulu.
