Lainey Wilson Was the Star of the 2025 CMA Awards
Lainey Wilson didn’t just show up to the 59th Annual CMA Awards — she owned them. From the moment the show opened, it was clear the night belonged to her. The “4x4xU” singer walked away with three of the biggest trophies of the evening — Album of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, and the coveted Entertainer of the Year — all while shouldering hosting duties with complete confidence and charm.
Hosting the CMA Awards entirely solo is a rare honor, one shared only by Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire before her. In taking on that role, Lainey stepped directly into country-music history, and she handled every second with humor, grace, and that unmistakable Lainey Wilson swagger.
But the awards and the jokes were just part of her reign. She also delivered powerhouse performances that had the entire arena on its feet. It was the kind of night that solidifies an artist not just as a star, but as a force — a defining voice of her generation. Lainey Wilson proved she is exactly that.
And in the most Lainey Wilson move imaginable, she didn’t end the night backstage or at some exclusive industry party. Instead, after wrapping the biggest night of her career, she made her way straight to her bar, Bell Bottoms Up, to surprise the fans who had gathered there for a viewing party. Still in full glam, still glowing from her wins, she posed for photos, shared hugs, signed anything she was handed, and even jumped on stage to join the celebration.
Fans filled social media with gratitude and pride:
“Our girl 🙌🙌🙌”
“It’s so refreshing to see a female country artist win Entertainer of the Year!! 💖🤠🎤🏆”
The love was loud — and completely deserved.
Bell Bottoms Up: A Nashville Staple
Since opening in May 2024, Bell Bottoms Up has become one of Downtown Nashville’s most popular destinations. Located at 120 3rd Avenue South in the heart of the South Broadway district, the three-level, 27,000-square-foot bar offers two stages, four bars, and a mezzanine lounge overlooking the dining room. The entire space is drenched in Lainey’s signature ’70s-western aesthetic, paired with a Cajun-inspired menu honoring her Louisiana roots.
It’s equal parts honky-tonk, time capsule, and Lainey Wilson universe — and nights like CMA night only add to its legend.
A Night to Remember
Three awards. A historic hosting role. Stunning performances. And a spontaneous celebration with the fans who helped get her there.
Lainey Wilson didn’t just have a big night — she had the night.
Congratulations to the Entertainer of the Year. The crown fits. 👑🤠✨