Country Music’s Biggest Night™ is getting ready to celebrate a pretty big milestone, and the first round of performers is here! The 60th Annual CMA Awards has announced its initial lineup, bringing together some of country music’s biggest names, rising stars and a special tribute to one of the genre’s most beloved icons, Dolly Parton.
Artists set to take the stage this year include Cody Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, Tim McGraw, Kacey Musgraves, The Red Clay Strays, Zach Top and Tucker Wetmore, along with a special tribute honoring Dolly Parton and her incredible impact on country music and entertainment.
Returning to host for the third consecutive year is Lainey Wilson, who will once again lead the celebration when the show takes over Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, November 18.
There are so many reasons to look forward to this year’s performances, especially with several of the night’s biggest nominees taking the stage. Ella Langley is leading the 2026 nominations with an impressive nine nods. Miranda Lambert isn’t far behind with seven nominations, bringing her career total to 70 and making her the most-nominated female artist in CMA Awards history. Cody Johnson also has a big night ahead with four nominations, including Entertainer of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year.
The lineup also includes some special milestones. Newly inducted Country Music Hall of Fame member Tim McGraw, who has earned 40 career CMA Awards nominations, will celebrate with a performance. Kacey Musgraves comes in with five nominations, while reigning Vocal Group of the Year The Red Clay Strays are nominated once again. Reigning New Artist of the Year Zach Top has two nominations this year, and Tucker Wetmore is back in the running for New Artist of the Year with his second CMA nomination.
And of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without celebrating Dolly Parton. A special tribute will honor the country music legend and the lasting influence she’s had across music, entertainment and beyond.
As we get closer to celebrating country music and the 60th Annual CMA Awards, more performers will be announced as well as presenters in the coming weeks.
A limited number of tickets are still available at CMAawards.com/tickets.
The 60th Annual CMA Awards airs live Wednesday, November 18, from 8–11 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with the show available to stream the following day on Hulu. Fans can also catch CMA Awards Backstage Live, presented by Bath & Body Works and hosted by Lauren Alaina and Haley Baylee.