CMA Fest presented by SoFi is almost here, and if you’re anything like us, you’re already packing your cowboy boots, rhinestone fits, and backup phone chargers.
From June 5–8, downtown Nashville is turning into the ultimate country music playground with non-stop performances, epic fan experiences, and a lineup that’s absolutely stacked with country royalty, buzzy newcomers, and genre rebels we can’t get enough of.
Whether you’re hitting every free outdoor stage, chilling in a VIP lounge, or screaming at the top of your lungs in Nissan Stadium, this day-by-day artist guide breaks down every important name on the lineup — plus commentary on exactly why they’re worth your precious festival time.
What to Do: Experiences Beyond the Stage
Fan Fair X @ Music City Center (June 5–8, 10:30 AM–5 PM)
This is the spot to cool off and geek out. From exclusive interviews and acoustic sets to merch, meet-and-greets, and more, Fan Fair X is a CMA Fest must-do.
Daily Highlights:
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Friday Artist of the Day: Trisha Yearwood – A true icon. She’s spilling all the tea on the CMA Close Up Stage.
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Saturday Artist of the Day: Rascal Flatts – Yep, more Flatts. Because one moment with them isn’t enough.
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Blending Borders: Country Music’s Genre Revolution – Featuring Mitchell Tenpenny, Marcus King & Alana Springsteen.
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Women of Opry NextStage – Priscilla Block, Kaitlin Butts, and Tigirlily Gold are taking over.
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Country Heat Weekly LIVE – Amazon Music’s live tapings with Parker McCollum, Dasha, Cole Swindell, and more.
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The Listening Room Presents: The Stories Behind the Songs – Go behind the lyrics with rising stars.
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Latino Trailblazers in Country – See Carin León, MŌRIAH and others repping culture and country together.
Tip: Fan Fair X sessions are first come, first served, so get there early and plan your schedule on the CMA Connect App.
Ticket & Access Breakdown
Whether you’re going full throttle or balling on a budget, CMA Fest has an option for every kind of fan:
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Four-Night Stadium Passes – Ultimate access to Nissan Stadium’s superstar-packed concerts.
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Single-Night Tickets – Choose your night, prices start at $79.80.
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Fan Fair X Tickets – $13/day or $28 for all four.
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Riverside Retreat – VIP upgrades for shaded spots, AC, early entry & discounted drinks? Yes please.
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Ascend Amphitheater Shows – Open-air vibes at night starting at $17. Full lineup TBA.
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FREE Outdoor Stages – The Riverfront, Dr Pepper Amp, Chevy Vibes & more — no ticket required!
Shop, Sip, & Chill: Exclusive Brand Activations
SoFi Plus Lounge – Fan Alley @ Riverfront Station: Free drinks, AC, glam bathrooms and surprise perks? SoFi’s members-only lounge is the place to recharge like a VIP.
SoFi 25% Cash Back: Using a SoFi debit or credit card? Enjoy up to $200 in rewards on food, drinks, and merch at CMA Fest.
Official CMA Fest Merch: Pre-order now at Shop.CMAFest.com or grab it onsite. Don’t sleep on those rhinestone trucker hats or oversized band tees.
Final Tips
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Download the CMA Connect App – It’s your bestie for maps, artist schedules, meet & greet alerts, and surprise drop-ins.
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Pack light but smart – Think portable chargers, sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and comfy boots.
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Arrive early, hydrate often, and leave room for spontaneous magic. CMA Fest is full of surprise sets, pop-up appearances, and unforgettable moments you won’t find anywhere else.
Who to See: Artists You Can’t Miss
With dozens of stages across downtown Nashville, the CMA Fest lineup is a choose-your-own-adventure fantasy. But here are some of our must-see sets (trust us on this)…
THURSDAY, JUNE 5
Megan Moroney – 11:00 AM, Riverfront Stage: Early risers, this one’s for you. She’s the moment. Megan’s sweet yet salty storytelling is perfect for daytime sun and stadium sparkle. Expect a massive crowd — she’s THAT girl.
Liam St. John – 11:20 AM, Hard Rock Stage: If Chris Stapleton and Kaleo had a baby with a bluesy soul, it’d be Liam. He’s gritty, soulful, and performs like he’s possessed by the music. Don’t let the early set time fool you — this one’s gonna feel like a headliner.
Parker McCollum – 11:45 AM, CMA Close Up Stage (Country Heat Weekly Live): Parker’s a walking heartbreak anthem, but he’s also got charm for days. He’ll give fans an up-close, personal look into his journey and music before lighting up Nissan Stadium Friday. If you love authenticity and brooding cowboys — be there.
Josh Ross – 11:50 AM, Riverfront Stage: A rising star with a rasp that cuts deep, Josh blends Nashville polish with Canadian grit. His songs are built for big stages and broken hearts. You’ll walk away wanting to add every song to your breakup playlist.
Lauren Watkins – 12:20 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: Lauren is all about that cool girl, back porch storytelling vibe. She’s got that effortless style, sultry vocal tone, and lyrical bite that makes you go, “Wait—who is that?”
Drew Baldridge – 12:40 PM, Riverfront Stage: A small-town guy with a big-time stage presence. Drew’s known for his danceable bops and high-energy shows that feel like a party. He’s also a total sweetheart with fans — expect good vibes all around.
Lanie Gardner – 1:15 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: She went viral for a reason. With her Stevie Nicks-inspired tone and a smooth country-pop twist, Lanie brings powerhouse vocals and major star energy. Her originals hit just as hard as her covers.
Austin Snell – 1:30 PM, Riverfront Stage: This “grunge country” newcomer is on the cutting edge of where country meets alt-rock. His sound is heavy, moody, and completely magnetic. Come for the emo aesthetic, stay for the anthems.
Christian Hayes – 1:35 PM, Hard Rock Stage: With a silky voice and lyrics straight from the heart, Christian is a name you’ll want to say you saw first. He’s quietly climbing the ladder — and his live performance proves why.
Dylan Schneider – 2:00 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: Radio-friendly hooks, a confident stage presence, and pop-country polish make Dylan a certified crowd-pleaser. He’s built for a summer festival — good looks, good vibes, and bangers.
Dasha – 2:20 PM, Riverfront Stage: After breaking out with the viral hit “Austin” and owning Stagecoach, Dasha is bringing her flirty, feminine, genre-bending energy to CMA Fest. Expect sparkle, sass, and possibly a crowd-wide line dance moment.
Road to #1s with Dustin Lynch, Drew Baldridge & John Morgan – 2:45 PM, CMA Close Up Stage: This panel offers a behind-the-scenes look at how your favorite hits are made. Hear directly from the voices behind country’s biggest bangers — and maybe even catch an acoustic moment.
Gavin Adcock – 3:10 PM, Riverfront Stage: The Georgia bulldozer-turned-country star is rough, real, and impossible to ignore. If you’re into country music with a shot of adrenaline and a chaser of chaos, Gavin’s your guy.
Kylie Morgan – 3:25 PM, Dr. Pepper Amp Stage: One of the genre’s strongest female lyricists, Kylie’s storytelling is raw, empowering, and soaked in heartache and resilience. She’s been building momentum, and this set is a guaranteed tearjerker-to-anthem rollercoaster.
Hudson Westbrook – 4:00 PM, Riverfront Stage: Hudson’s the kind of artist who makes you want to grab a beer, lean back, and get lost in the sound. He’s got a laid-back delivery and classic-country-meets-coastal vibes.
Ashley Cooke – 4:50 PM, Riverfront Stage: Ashley is one of the most exciting voices in modern country. Her set will have you swaying, crying, and belting every word back. She’s giving main stage energy in a daytime slot — show up early for a good spot.
CeCe – 5:20 PM, Hard Rock Stage: Don’t let her slot fool you — CeCe’s vocals are powerhouse level. She blends Southern soul with fresh country pop and is bound to blow new fans away.
Randall King – 5:40 PM, Riverfront Stage: A true neo-traditionalist with George Strait vibes. Randall delivers hardcore country nostalgia with a crisp, clean tone and cowboy charm.
Nissan Stadium (8:30 PM – 12:00 AM) — Ella Langley, Tigirlily Gold, Riley Green, Max McNown, Darius Rucker, Scotty McCreery, Brooks & Dunn, Jason Aldean: This is the kind of lineup you camp out for. OGs like Brooks & Dunn bring the hits, Jason Aldean brings the fire, and Darius Rucker will make you feel all the feelings. Plus, Scotty and Riley = heartthrob central.
FRIDAY, JUNE 6
Marcus King – 11:00 AM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Marcus doesn’t just perform — he shreds. With a guitar in hand and vocals soaked in Southern soul, he brings a blues-meets-country fusion that’ll make you feel like you’re in a smoky Nashville dive bar, even if you’re standing under a blistering sun. This is your Friday morning mic drop moment.
Graham Barham – 11:30 AM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: A Louisiana native with a magnetic stage presence and catchy, clever lyrics. Graham is bringing small-town swagger with a side of heartbreak, and we’re eating it up. He’s one of those artists you’ll see on the side stage this year and the stadium stage very soon.
RaeLynn – 11:50 AM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: She’s been a fan favorite since The Voice, and RaeLynn continues to serve country-pop realness with bubbly charm. Expect lots of glitter, attitude, and unapologetic storytelling. Her set is a whole personality — flirty, fun, and full of female power.
Max McNown – 12:40 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Max is a rising star with a golden-hour kind of voice. There’s a warmth in his delivery that feels instantly familiar — like a summer crush in the form of a melody. Lowkey one of the most heart-melting voices at CMA Fest this year.
Mitchell Tenpenny, Marcus King, Alana Springsteen – 12:45 PM, CMA Close Up Stage (Blending Borders: Country’s Genre Revolution): This panel is going to be vibes. These three artists are the definition of crossover cool — pushing country into pop, rock, R&B, and beyond. You’ll hear them talk about breaking rules, blending sounds, and making country music that speaks to today’s generation.
Sam Barber – 1:30 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Raw. Unfiltered. A little haunted. Sam Barber sings like he’s lived ten lives — and every one of them left a story behind. His voice has a haunting grit that’s impossible to ignore, and he’s definitely on the rise thanks to TikTok buzz and a fiercely loyal fanbase.
Cameron Whitcomb – 2:00 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: Canadian wild child energy. Cameron’s live show is unfiltered, chaotic in the best way, and packed with electric energy. He’s got serious vocals and a rock n’ roll twist that sets him apart from your average newcomer.
Colbie Caillat – 2:20 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Yes, that Colbie Caillat. The “Bubbly” queen has gone country — and her warm, nostalgic sound fits perfectly in Music City. Watching her live feels like reconnecting with an old friend, and her new era is effortlessly elegant and refreshingly grown-up.
Ian Munsick – 3:10 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: One of the most unique voices in the genre. Ian mixes fiddle-filled Western flair with deep storytelling and a touch of mountain mystique. If you’re into cowboy hats, wild horses, and songs that make you cry in a good way — don’t miss this one.
Shaylen – 3:25 PM, Dr. Pepper Amp Stage: Think country-pop with a glitter bomb twist. Shaylen is a full-blown vocalist — powerhouse runs, boss-girl lyrics, and a sound that makes you feel like the main character. Her energy is contagious, and her glam is always on point.
Vincent Mason – 3:40 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: He’s young, hungry, and incredibly authentic. Vincent’s music leans heartfelt and hopeful, and his live show is all about connection. His lyrics are the kind that feel ripped from your notes app.
Maddie & Tae – 4:00 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Legends in the making. The duo has consistently given us high-harmony heartbreakers and feminist anthems with a twang. Their live vocals are flawless, and they radiate that BFF chemistry onstage that makes the whole set feel personal.
Willie Jones – 4:30 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: Willie is shaking things UP. He fuses country with hip-hop, funk, and pure Louisiana flair — and it works. His voice is deep, distinct, and totally genreless. Expect cowboy boots and bounce.
Midland – 4:50 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: These retro rebels are dripping in 70s country glam. With flashy fits, mustaches galore, and harmonies tighter than their bell bottoms, Midland knows how to perform. Every set is part honky-tonk, part rock show, and fully iconic.
Carter Faith – 5:00 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: Carter is serving moody Americana vibes with whisper-soft vocals and sharp, poetic lyrics. She’s elegant, introspective, and one of the best-kept secrets in Nashville — for now. Catch her before she goes big.
Tigirlily Gold – 5:40 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Sisters. Powerhouse harmonies. Unmatched chemistry. Tigirlily Gold has become CMA Fest staples, and every set is a glittery, high-energy celebration of country girl strength. Come ready to sing, scream, and dance your boots off.
Nissan Stadium (8:00 PM – 12:00 AM) — Rita Wilson, Shaboozey, Kameron Marlowe, Parker McCollum, Sam Barber, Cody Johnson, Kelsea Ballerini, Keith Urban: Friday night = stacked. Kelsea brings pop perfection and emotional depth, Keith Urban delivers fireworks (and maybe a guitar solo on his back), and Cody Johnson is going to stomp all over that stage with Texan swagger. Also: Shaboozey’s cowboy-era renaissance? Don’t miss it.
SATURDAY, JUNE 7
Jackson Dean – 11:00 AM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Jackson Dean’s voice sounds like it’s been marinated in Tennessee whiskey — gritty, soulful, and born for outlaw country. His set will hit you right in the chest, blending heartache, hard truths, and pure stage firepower. If you want raw and real, start your day with Jackson.
Annie Bosko – 11:20 AM, Hard Rock Stage: A powerhouse vocalist with throwback flair, Annie Bosko brings honky-tonk soul and glam cowgirl energy. She’s bold, she’s bright, and she knows how to command a stage — even at 11 AM. A total sleeper hit of the day.
Laci Kaye Booth – 11:45 AM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: This Idol alum serves smoky vocals and moody melodies with Lana Del Rey-level mystique. Her music is dreamy yet grounded, with lyrics that simmer beneath the surface. Perfect for a slow dance moment in the sunshine.
Tayler Holder – 12:20 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: From TikTok heartthrob to rising country crooner, Tayler Holder brings crossover charm and catchy radio-ready tracks. His set is all about chill vibes, flirty lyrics, and boy-next-door charisma — aka the Gen Z crowd will be screaming.
Tanner Adell – 12:40 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Tanner is leading the “Hot Girl Country” revolution with unapologetic attitude, high fashion, and major talent. She’s genre-bending, rule-breaking, and redefining what a country star looks like. You don’t watch her set — you experience it.
John Morgan – 2:35 PM, Dr. Pepper Amp Stage: With gritty vocals and dark, stormy production, John Morgan brings a rock-leaning edge to modern country. He’s a frequent Jason Aldean collaborator — and it shows in the way he owns the stage. A hidden gem with headliner potential.
Greylan James – 2:50 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: Greylan is the type of songwriter whose lyrics hit like a movie montage. His smooth delivery and authentic stories make you feel like he’s singing your life. He’s lowkey, humble, and wildly talented — don’t sleep on him.
Alana Springsteen – 3:10 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Alana is having a moment. With a debut album that proved she’s got both vocal chops and storytelling finesse, her live set is full of cinematic emotion and pop-country sparkle. She’s one of CMA Fest’s brightest rising stars, hands down.
Maddox Batson – 3:30 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: Young, hungry, and full of soul — Maddox brings a blend of small-town sincerity and Nashville polish. He’s new on the scene, but his voice and charm will have you convinced he’s been doing this forever.
Kameron Marlowe – 4:00 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: With a rock-soul voice that echoes off buildings, Kameron’s live show is all swagger, heart, and Southern grit. He’s gritty enough for the boys, sensitive enough for the girls, and talented enough for everyone.
Tyler Braden – 4:50 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Imagine country music with the intensity of a rock concert — that’s Tyler Braden. His booming vocals and emotionally charged songs pack an unexpected punch. He’ll take you from headbanging to crying in under three minutes.
Colin Stough – 5:20 PM, Hard Rock Stage: This country rocker from American Idol is as real as it gets. His gravel-road vocals and laid-back style feel like Saturday night on the back of a tailgate. He’s got grit, charm, and star power written all over him.
Nissan Stadium (8:00 PM – 12:00 AM) — Deana Carter, Tiera Kennedy, Blake Shelton, Carter Faith, Megan Moroney, Jordan Davis, Rascal Flatts, Carly Pearce: Saturday night might just be the crown jewel of CMA Fest. Carly Pearce will deliver vocal perfection, Rascal Flatts is reuniting for a nostalgia-drenched set (crying), and Blake Shelton is guaranteed to bring the beer-sipping, hit-filled good times. Plus, don’t miss rising queens like Tiera Kennedy and Carter Faith lighting up the big stage.
SUNDAY, JUNE 8
Brandon Lake – 11:00 AM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: A CMA Fest first that you do not want to miss — worship leader turned GRAMMY-winning crossover star Brandon Lake is making his Riverfront Stage debut, and he’s about to deliver a set that blends faith, fire, and festival energy. Known for emotional anthems like “Gratitude” and “Praise You Anywhere,” Brandon’s voice is explosive and his presence magnetic. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just need a Sunday soul reset, this will be a powerful, goosebumps-level start to your final day at CMA Fest.
Chris Lane – 11:50 AM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Chris Lane is a full-blown country heartthrob with hits for days. His set will be all high energy and flirtatious fun — think “Fix,” “Big, Big Plans,” and maybe a surprise acoustic moment. Bring your girls, bring your crush, bring your sunscreen.
Mackenzie Carpenter – 12:20 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: This bubbly blonde is equal parts sweet and savage. With a voice like sunshine and lyrics that spill the tea, Mackenzie is a rising Gen Z favorite who brings relatable girl-next-door energy to every single set.
Willow Avalon – 12:30 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: Dreamy vocals and storytelling straight out of a fairytale — Willow is lowkey enchanting. Her soft, ethereal presence is a Sunday morning cleanse for your soul after three nights of honky-tonk chaos.
Gabby Barrett – 12:40 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Power. Presence. Pipes. Gabby Barrett’s voice will knock you flat — in a good way. She’s gone from Idol standout to country superstar, and this performance is going to feel major. Expect massive crowd singalongs and a few tears.
Mason Ramsey – 12:55 PM, Dr. Pepper Amp Stage: From Walmart yodeler to bonafide artist, Mason Ramsey is back and better than ever. His vocal control and stage confidence will blow you away — and his new music shows he’s here for the long haul.
Zach John King – 1:15 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: Zach brings chill guy energy with introspective lyrics and a tone that’s warm and rich. He’s the kind of artist who pulls you in with his calm confidence and makes you stay for his stories.
Dylan Marlowe – 1:30 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Bro-country with brains. Dylan’s music is catchy without being cliché — full of down-home charm and clever turns of phrase. He’s young, relatable, and rising fast.
Adrien Nunez – 2:00 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: Stylish and soulful, Adrien Nunez brings a modern, genre-fluid take to the CMA Fest stage. Whether you’ve followed him from TikTok or are discovering him here, he’ll pull you in with his charisma and fresh sound.
Jerrod Niemann – 2:35 PM, Dr. Pepper Amp Stage: A seasoned performer with a catalog of hits and a wild sense of humor. Jerrod’s shows are fun, upbeat, and unexpectedly emotional. Come for “Lover, Lover,” stay for a masterclass in showmanship.
Tucker Wetmore – 3:10 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: If you missed him earlier in the weekend, now’s your second chance. Tucker’s deep voice, viral momentum, and cool-as-hell confidence make him one of the most exciting breakout acts of 2025. He’s got “next big thing” written all over him.
Drake Milligan – 3:40 PM, Chevy Vibes Stage: Elvis reincarnated with a cowboy hat. Drake Milligan has that slicked-back swagger, golden-era country soul, and charisma that oozes from every note. A must-see live performer.
Ella Langley – 4:00 PM, Chevy Riverfront Stage: Back for another round, and she’s not playing. Ella blends gritty rock vocals with small-town storytelling, and her set always leaves a mark. She’s one of the most exciting voices on the rise right now.
Alexandra Kay – 5:00 PM, Good Molecules Reverb Stage: Her voice is angelic, her lyrics are vulnerable, and her fan connection is unreal. Alexandra Kay has the viral chops and the live vocals to back it all up. She’s a Gen Z country queen in the making.
Sam Williams – 5:20 PM, Hard Rock Stage: The grandson of Hank Williams and son of Hank Jr., Sam carries the family legacy with grace — but on his own terms. His music is poetic, genre-blending, and intensely emotional. A Sunday night soul cleanse.
Nissan Stadium (8:00 PM – 12:00 AM) — Rodney Atkins, Zach Top, Avery Anna, Bailey Zimmerman, Ashley McBryde, Tucker Wetmore, Dylan Scott, Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan: The final night is going out with a bang. Bailey Zimmerman will absolutely wreck your heart, Dierks will bring the stadium bangers, and Luke Bryan? He’s the human confetti cannon of country music — high energy, high fun, and the perfect way to close it out.
