The Country Music Association Reveals First Performers for The 55th Annual CMA Awards

The Country Music Association has revealed the first wave of performers slated for The 55th Annual CMA Awards. The lineup highlights a mix of established superstars and rising country acts, with live performances scheduled from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The awards show will be broadcast live on ABC on Wednesday, November 10, from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. EST, and will be hosted by American Idol judge Luke Bryan.

This initial performer announcement features a variety of artists and collaborations across the country music spectrum. CMA New Artist of the Year nominee Jimmie Allen is set to perform his single “Freedom Was a Highway.” Allen’s appearance reflects his growing presence in country music and his recognition by the CMA this season.

Brothers Osborne, a three-time CMA Award nominee this year, will bring a performance from their Album of the Year–nominated record, Skeletons. The duo has earned attention for their distinctive sound and songwriting, and their set is expected to showcase material from that celebrated album.

Eric Church, nominated five times this year including for Entertainer of the Year, will perform “Heart on Fire” from his Album of the Year–nominated project Heart. Church’s performance will be one of the highlights of the evening, reflecting his status as a reigning force in country music and a frequent presence at the CMAs.

Country vocal duo Dan + Shay, who are the reigning two-time consecutive CMA Vocal Duo of the Year and nominees in the category again this year, will perform their hit “I Should Probably Go to Bed.” Known for their polished harmonies and crossover appeal, Dan + Shay are expected to deliver a strong, radio-ready performance.

Mickey Guyton, another CMA New Artist of the Year nominee, will present a collaboration featuring rising artists Brittney Spencer and Madeline Edwards. The trio will perform material from Guyton’s debut album, Remember Her Name, offering a performance that highlights both Guyton’s artistry and the talents of Spencer and Edwards as emerging voices in country music.

Two-time nominee Carly Pearce and three-time nominee Ashley McBryde will join forces for their duet “Never Wanted to Be That Girl.” Their collaboration has drawn critical acclaim for its storytelling and vocal interplay, and their CMA performance is expected to be a standout moment in the program.

Ten-time CMA Award winner Blake Shelton will take the stage with his song “Come Back as a Country Boy.” Shelton’s long history with the CMA Awards and his consistent audience appeal make his appearance a notable addition to the evening’s roster.

Additional performers and presenters for The 55th Annual CMA Awards will be announced in the weeks leading up to the ceremony. The CMA traditionally unveils names in stages to build anticipation, and the full lineup often includes collaborations and surprise appearances.

The CMA Awards have been broadcast on ABC since 2006. ABC serves as the television home for the CMA Awards as well as other CMA-branded programs, including CMA Fest and CMA Country Christmas, reinforcing the network’s long-standing relationship with country music’s premier awards show.

This year’s ceremony promises a mix of established hits and new collaborations, reflecting both the current nominees and the broader diversity of country music today. Viewers can expect memorable live performances, genre-spanning duets, and moments that highlight why the CMA Awards remain a central event on the country music calendar.