At the 59th Country Music Association Awards, Lainey Wilson took center stage as host, delivering a memorable and deeply personal musical monologue. Her performance not only showcased her talent but also paid homage to her Louisiana upbringing and the enduring legacy of country music. This captivating opening set a celebratory tone for the evening, highlighting Wilson's unique blend of charm and musical prowess.

While Luke Combs officially kicked off the event with his powerful rendition of “Back in the Saddle,” it was Lainey Wilson who truly welcomed the audience at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena and those tuning in from home. Wilson's folksy narrative, filled with recollections of her childhood in Baskin, Louisiana, seamlessly transitioned into a vibrant musical medley. This segment was a heartfelt journey through the genre's beloved tunes, performed with an authenticity that resonated deeply.

During her captivating medley, Wilson was joined by an array of country music luminaries, including Keith Urban, Little Big Town, and Charlie Worsham. She serenaded the crowd with classics such as Chris Stapleton’s “White Horse” and Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush,” often stepping into the audience to sing directly to the artists who made these songs famous. The energy was palpable as she sang “Redneck Woman” with an enthusiastic Gretchen Wilson, and shared a lively moment with Miranda Lambert during “Gunpowder & Lead.” The stage lit up further when she danced with Shaboozey to “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” culminating in a surprise appearance by Keith Urban, who joined her on guitar and vocals for “Where the Blacktop Ends.”

Wilson’s role as host was particularly significant, marking her as the first woman to host the CMA Awards solo since Reba McEntire in 1991. As one of the night's leading nominees with six nods, tying with Ella Langley and Megan Moroney, her achievement was a testament to her growing influence in country music. Reflecting on this milestone during an interview, Wilson expressed her disbelief at the statistic, sharing her excitement about Reba McEntire's support. She humorously added her anticipation of playfully teasing her peers, stating, “Let me make fun of Luke Combs, please,” underscoring her comfortable and familiar relationship with the country music community.

The 59th annual Country Music Association Awards were broadcast live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on ABC, with streaming available on Hulu starting Thursday, allowing fans nationwide to witness this extraordinary celebration of country music and Lainey Wilson’s pivotal role in it.

Lainey Wilson's tenure as host of the CMA Awards was a definitive highlight, characterized by her genuine charm, remarkable vocal talent, and deep respect for country music. Her musical medley, featuring esteemed colleagues and iconic songs, created an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration. This evening cemented her status not just as a leading artist, but as a compelling and charismatic figure capable of carrying the night's biggest honors.