Unforgettable Surprises and Star-Studded Collaborations: Top Moments from CMA Fest 2025
- All Country News
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
CMA Fest 2025 brought the heat to Nashville with another jam-packed weekend of unforgettable performances, surprise duets, major announcements, and heartwarming milestones. From stadium-shaking anthems to intimate moments that left fans in awe, this year’s festival proved once again why it's the crown jewel of country music. Here’s a look at some of the standout highlights from Music City’s biggest week, in no particular order:
Lainey Wilson Joins Brooks & Dunn for “Play Something Country”
In a full-circle country moment, reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson took the Nissan Stadium stage alongside legends Brooks & Dunn for a fiery rendition of their rowdy hit “Play Something Country.” The crowd roared as Lainey strutted her signature swagger, proving she’s more than ready to carry the torch for a new era of honky-tonk royalty.
Brett Young and Hannah McFarland Reimagine a Modern Classic
Fans were treated to a preview of something special when Brett Young brought rising artist Hannah McFarland on stage to unveil their reimagined version of Young’s breakout hit “In Case You Didn’t Know.” The duet, set to appear on Brett’s forthcoming album, offered a tender and refreshingly soulful spin on the beloved ballad.
Zach Top Announces New Album and Debuts Single
With his boots firmly planted in traditional country, Zach Top took to CMA Fest to reveal his upcoming album Ain’t In It For My Health, due out August 29. He gave fans a taste of what’s to come with a sun-soaked live debut of the album’s first single “Good Times & Tan Lines,” a breezy, retro-leaning track perfect for the summer soundtrack.
Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll Deliver a Powerful Stadium Moment
One of the most unexpected and powerful collaborations of the weekend came when Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll joined forces at Nissan Stadium for an emotionally charged performance of “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” Their raw vocal chemistry and faith-fueled energy turned the massive venue into a sea of raised hands and full hearts.
Ella Langley and Dylan Marlowe Light Up the Riverfront Stage
Ella Langley’s Riverfront Stage set drew one of the weekend’s most enthusiastic crowds, and it only got louder when Dylan Marlowe joined her for a sizzling duet of “You Look Like You Love Me.” The chemistry was electric, the harmonies were tight, and the crowd knew every word.
Luke Bryan Hosts a Stadium Dance-Off
Always the entertainer, Luke Bryan added a dose of pure fun to his headlining Nissan Stadium set by hosting a spontaneous dance-off between two brave male fans during “Country Girl (Shake It For Me).” With the crowd cheering and Luke playing hype man, it was one of the weekend’s most lighthearted and replay-worthy moments.
Austin Snell Gives Hudson Westbrook His Opry Debut Invite
CMA Fest has a way of turning dreams into reality. During his buzzing Riverfront set, Hudson Westbrook was surprised by Austin Snell, who stepped on stage to invite the breakout star to make his Grand Ole Opry debut. The emotional moment was met with cheers and tears, marking a life-changing milestone for the rising singer-songwriter.
Whether it was the passing of the torch between generations, unexpected mashups that blended gospel and grit, or the feel-good fun of a stadium-wide dance-off, this year’s festival served as a vivid reminder of why Nashville remains the beating heart of country music. Every stage, from the Riverfront to the Nissan Stadium became a platform not just for performances, but for connection. For artists to connect with fans. For legends to welcome rising stars. And for unforgettable memories to be made under the summer skies. As the sun sets on another incredible CMA Fest, one thing is clear: the future of country music is in good hands. It’s bold, it's collaborative, it honors its roots while charging full-speed ahead and above all, it brings people together. Until next year, Nashville.
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