CMA Awards 2025: Lainey Wilson, Zach Top & Cody Johnson Lead a Night of Big Wins
The 59th CMA Awards lit up Nashville last night with major upsets, breakout moments, and a second career-defining sweep for Lainey Wilson. From first-time winners to long-awaited victories, here’s everything you need to know from Country Music’s Biggest Night.
Lainey Wilson Rules the Night
Lainey Wilson took home the biggest award of the evening — Entertainer of the Year — marking her second time winning the top prize. She also secured Album of the Year for Whirlwind and continued her momentum as country’s most unstoppable force.
Zach Top’s Breakout Moment
Zach Top delivered one of the night’s most memorable wins, picking up New Artist of the Year with a beer can still in hand. His rise from traditional country torchbearer to CMA winner signals a major shift in the genre.
Cody Johnson Ends Stapleton’s Streak
After six consecutive victories for Chris Stapleton, Male Vocalist of the Year finally changed hands. Cody Johnson claimed the trophy for the first time, a milestone fans have long been anticipating.
Red Clay Strays Make History
In a huge surprise, The Red Clay Strays broke Old Dominion’s domination to win Vocal Group of the Year, marking their first-ever CMA victory.
Ella Langley & Riley Green Score Two Wins
“You Look Like You Love Me” proved unstoppable, winning both Single of the Year and Music Video of the Year, giving Langley and Green a massive double victory on one of country’s biggest stages.
Post Malone Earns His First CMA Win
Post Malone’s country crossover continues to pay off. He took home Musical Event of the Year for “Pour Me a Drink” with Blake Shelton.
Brooks & Dunn Stand Strong
The legendary duo once again claimed Vocal Duo of the Year, extending their long-running legacy of CMA success.
Full List of Winners:
Entertainer of the Year: Lainey Wilson
Single of the Year: “You Look Like You Love Me” – Ella Langley & Riley Green
Album of the Year: Whirlwind – Lainey Wilson
Song of the Year: “I Never Lie” – Zach Top
Female Vocalist of the Year: Lainey Wilson
Male Vocalist of the Year: Cody Johnson
Vocal Group of the Year: The Red Clay Strays
Vocal Duo of the Year: Brooks & Dunn
Musical Event of the Year: “Pour Me a Drink” – Post Malone feat. Blake Shelton
Musician of the Year: Derek Wells – Guitar
Music Video of the Year: “You Look Like You Love Me” – Ella Langley & Riley Green
New Artist of the Year: Zach Top
The CMA was the best one I ever saw. It was hosted by the most real country singer Lainey Wilson, who lives the songs she writes and performs. She brought a natural flow throughout the whole show. I loved how she started off and included some of the other country stars with their songs. Brilliant move. Lainey deserved her 3 wins. It was clear who stayed in their own lane this year. Lainey Wilson is also worth every concert dollarI paid this year.
Cathy:)
livingmedia.ca