Country music’s favorite blonde baddie is having her “it girl” summer and we’re just lucky to be along for the ride.
From kicking off CMA Fest 2025 on the iconic Riverfront Stage to surprising fans alongside Marshmello and Ne-Yo (yes, really), Ashley Cooke did what only Ashley Cooke can—shut down the weekend with style, sass, and straight-up star power.
Oh, and did we mention she capped it off with a NASCAR performance that had race fans and country lovers screaming for more?
For those who weren’t able to make witness her iconic moments, don’t stress. We’ve got your full recap including some of the biggest highlights (and deets on her incredible ‘fits) below.
Riverfront Royalty on Day One
Ashley wasted no time making her mark on CMA Fest, opening the Riverfront Stage on Thursday (June 5) with fan-favorites like “your place,” “it’s been a year,” and a sweet acoustic moment with “never til now.” With Nashville’s skyline as her backdrop and sunshine on her shoulders, the vibes were immaculate.
The 28-year-old kicked off her day by wearing an Outcast top with a denim set by Stella McCartney. She paired it with a belt from 8 Other Reasons and boots quite literally made for walking by Kemosabe.
For her show-stopping performance, Ashley brought the heat to Nashville’s Riverfront in a Dolls House top and shorts, paired with Lulus Mallerie Suede Studded Knee-High Western Boots ($79) and layered 8 Other Reasons accessories. Country cool girl, was totally unlocked from this point forward, and we’re still trying to find ways we can recreate it for festival season this summer.
Marshmello Mayhem at Spotify House
Let’s just say no one expected to see Ashley Cooke crash Marshmello’s set at Spotify House later that night—but that’s exactly what she did. Cooke hit the stage for a surprise performance that instantly blew the roof of Ole Red, wearing a vintage Versace via Clothed LA top, La Marque pants, Steve Madden boots, a Good American belt and Jennifer Zeuner earrings.
Fan Love + Hitmaker Energy on Day Two
Friday (June 6) was jam-packed with moments for the books. Ashley swung by SiriusXM’s The Highway Happy Hour, slayed at the iHeartRadio House Party, and hosted her very own Cooke-Out fan bash—complete with acoustic vibes and heartfelt stories behind the songs. For the occasion, Ashley wore a Levi’s vest, shorts and jacket that were customized by Electrik Denim, jewelry from Teeli Jewels and Sterling Forever, and once again boots from Kemosabe.
She even performed her latest single, “the f word” (which we first heard back at CRS 2025), giving fans a live taste of her new music era—playful, emotional, and so Ashley.
She’s Baaaack — But This Time with Ne-Yo!
On Saturday night (June 7), Ashley made her return to Spotify House, making Ole Red look like it was straight out of a 2006 dream sequence. Ashley stunned in a Laruicci top, AREA jeans, Larroude boots, Kendra Scott earrings and Sterling Forever rings before casually bringing out Ne-Yo for a duet of “So Sick.” The crowd? Unhinged. Us? Crying, dancing, thriving.
This moment lives rent-free in our heads.
Start Your Engines: Ashley Hits NASCAR
After turning downtown Nashville into her own runway, Ashley headed to Michigan International Speedway for the Busch Light Summer Music Series, performing before the FireKeepers Casino 400 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday (June 8).
She joined driver Ross Chastain for a little fun on the track and brought the house down with hits from shot in the dark, including her chart-topper “your place.” We’re calling it now—Ashley Cooke and NASCAR is our new favorite crossover.
For her trackside fashion, Ashley wore a top from Victoria’s Secret, custom Levi’s pants and jewelry from Kendra Scott and Sterling Forever.
ICYMI: Ashley is currently on tour with Kane Brown, heating up arenas nationwide, and her new single “the f word” is a cheeky heartbreak anthem that needs to be on your summer playlist. For what’s next, Ashley’s sophomore album is on the way with her rise showing no signs of slowing down. With moments like this, it’s no wonder why she’s one of the most exciting voices in country music today.
Hosted by Cody Johnson and Ashley McBryde, you can relive the best CMA Fest moments by watching CMA Fest presented by SoFi this Thursday, June 26th @ 8/7c on ABC and Hulu. Trust us—this is one you don’t want to skip.
For more coverage from CMA Fest 2025, click here.
