Country Music Now! Latest News on the Biggest Country Stars https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/ Latest Entertainment News & Celebrity News Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:16:15 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://entertainmentnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/cropped-cropped-icon.png?w=32 Country Music Now! Latest News on the Biggest Country Stars https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/ 32 32 234583888 Beloved Country Duo Announces Their Split https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/beloved-country-duo-announces-their-split/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/beloved-country-duo-announces-their-split/#respond Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:00:42 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5595432 Maddie & Tae

A hit-making country music duo just announced they are splitting up as their lives are going in different directions.

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Maddie & Tae

After 15 years of hits, tours and shared harmonies, country duo Maddie & Tae announced they are going their separate professional ways — at least for now.

In an exclusive interview with People published December 8, 2025, members Maddie Marlow Font and Tae Dye Kerr revealed they’re ending the duo to follow different personal callings, while vowing that their friendship remains strong.

While their journey as a duo might be coming to an end, the two remain friends.

“Even though we’re not gonna go on this journey as Maddie & Tae together, we’re still walking and doing life together outside of it,” Font said. “And I think I’m really excited to just be best friends and nurture our friendship and not have to worry as much about the work and still get to raise our babies together. None of that changes.”

The two added a statement on their Instagram after the news broke on Monday, Dec. 8.

“Thank you for all the love as we step into this new bittersweet chapter,” it began. “We both feel overwhelmed with gratitude for what we’ve built with y’all the last 12 years. Thank you for making our wildest dreams come true and we hope you stay close by to watch us chase some new dreams.”


What’s Next for Each

Font shared that she’s felt a renewed drive to purse music solo.

At the same time, Kerr said she’s stepping back from the spotlight to focus on her family, embracing motherhood and the demanding work of raising children.

“I’m a mother, too, so I totally understand the pull,” Font told the outlet. “We both were very aware of T’s heart just not being in touring as much.”

However, Font said in the future the two could reunite.

“We’re leaving this so open-ended because, you know, we might make another record one day,” Font added. “We might go do some tour dates one day.”

Maddie & Tae burst onto the country scene in 2014 with their debut single “Girl In a Country Song,” and went on to build a catalog filled with honest storytelling, tight harmonies, and chart-topping songs including “Die From a Broken Heart.”

Over the years, they released four albums and several EPs, earned a devoted fan base, and racked up award nominations and critical acclaim. 


Fans React

Fans were quick to react to the surprising news of the two splitting.

“I’ve loved them since middle school i’m so bummed about this,” one user wrote.

The band Tigerlily Gold added, “You two are both incredible people. Will always be cheering each of you on.”

While the two are not going to be making any more music, the country duo still has a handful of tour dates in 2026 before they officially part ways.

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SEE: George Strait Honored at the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/george-strait-2025-kennedy-center-honors/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/george-strait-2025-kennedy-center-honors/#respond Mon, 08 Dec 2025 18:58:27 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5595366 George Strait

George Strait has earned many accolades in his career, and now he's added being a Kennedy Center honoree to his resume.

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George Strait

Longtime singer/songwriter George Strait has earned numerous accolades throughout his long career. In December 2025, he added another to his resume when he received a medal from President Donald Trump at the Kennedy Center Honors. The president fittingly introduced Strait as a “country music legend.” As Fox News reported, the medals given to this year’s honorees came courtesy of Tiffany & Co.

Strait was one of several music and film stars who received this special honor. By his side were actors Sylvester Stallone and Michael Crawford, singer Gloria Gaynor, and the rock & roll band KISS. The event’s red carpet was equally star-studded, with some of Hollywood’s best and brightest in attendance.


The Honor Comes After Strait Celebrated a Major Personal Milestone

George Strait & Norma StraitGetty
US country music singer and Kennedy Center Honoree George Strait and his wife Norma Strait arrive for the 48th Kennedy Center Honors gala.

Strait had his wife, Norma, by his side at the Kennedy Center Honors — a place she has long occupied at public events. However, this appearance was special because of the major milestone the couple recently celebrated. On December 4th, 2025, the pair rang in their 54th wedding anniversary, a rare accomplishment for any couple. As Country Living reported, the Straits eloped in Mexico back in 1971.

Even more surprising is the fact that this incredible personal milestone almost never happened. “I asked her out, and we went on a date. We didn’t see each other for a long time after that,” Strait said. “Then one day, I thought, ‘I’m missing the boat here,’ and we started dating again.” The rest is country music history.


The Country Music Icon is in the Twilight Years of His Touring Career

George StraitGetty
George Strait performs onstage during Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Celebration of the Life & Music of Loretta Lynn.

The Kennedy Center Honors also comes at a time when Strait is at a crossroads in his career. In May 2025, the singer told a crowd of fans that his days of live performances may become a thing of the past in just a few years. “I have maybe five good years to sing my songs for you folks,” he said in the emotional message. “It’s been around fifty now, and I still love it just as much as I ever did.”

Strait has definitely slowed down over the years, but he’s not stopping just yet. As of this writing, his official website lists three live performances scheduled for mid-2026. Even after he hangs up his touring hat for good, fans will still be able to enjoy his massive catalog of legendary hits and their memories of his decades’ worth of concerts.

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Bandmates Lift ’90s Country Star’s Spirits With Bedside Concert Amid Stage 4 Cancer Battle: ‘All the Love for You’ https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/raul-malo-stage-4-cancer-update/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/raul-malo-stage-4-cancer-update/#comments Mon, 08 Dec 2025 09:23:58 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5594706 Raul Malo Lifted Up in Prayer After Hospital Bedside Concert

Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium became a place of tribute this weekend as The Mavericks marked 35 years and fans showered ’90s country star Raul Malo with love.

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Raul Malo Lifted Up in Prayer After Hospital Bedside Concert

Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium became a place of tribute this weekend as The Mavericks marked 35 years and fans showered ’90s country star Raul Malo with love.

Malo, who is battling stage 4 cancer, could not attend the event in person. Still, he shared a heartfelt message from his hospital room, where he watched the tribute unfold online.

As Night 2 of “Dance the Night Away: A 35-Year Musical Legacy Celebrating The Mavericks & Honoring Raul Malo” began, Malo posted a photo of the Ryman stage filled with performers holding signs that read “I Stand Up for Raul Malo.”

The sight deeply moved fans and musicians alike.


Heartfelt Hospital Video Shows Bandmates Singing to Malo as Support Pours In

Earlier that day, his wife, Betty Malo, posted a video from the hospital. Bandmates had gathered at Malo’s bedside to sing and play for him. The moment drew emotional reactions from across the country music community.

Chely Wright wrote, “I love you guys. ❤️.” Sawyer Brown added, “Sending love to you, Raul. Praying for you and your family.” James Otto commented, “We love you, Raul & Betty. This is beautiful,” and Hector Tellez Jr. wrote, “All the love for you, Raul. ❤️.”


What Malo Told Fans as Stars Performed in His Honor

In a message shared Saturday night, Malo thanked fans for turning the tribute into a celebration he could still feel from afar.

“What an incredible evening to kick off an emotional and already memorable weekend! Thank you all for packing out the house at the Ryman Auditorium & making Night 1 truly special. Night 2 incoming…”

He then listed the performers taking the stage in his honor. The lineup included Jamey Johnson, Patty Griffin, Marty Stuart, Maggie Rose, Wendy Moten, Wade Hayes, Waylon Payne, Jim Lauderdale, Nikki Lane, Emily West, Tellez Jr, and several more.

Malo confirmed that although he could not perform, he was watching the entire event. He also noted that the shows were sold out but available to stream on Nugs.


Fans Lift Malo in Prayer as Messages of Support Pour In

The comments on Malo’s Facebook post quickly filled with heartfelt messages. One fan who attended wrote, “What a night… unfortunately, there is no voice like Raul’s, but what an amazing night of talent paying homage. The Mavericks as a band are amazing always… my favorite group of all time. Prays for Raul.”

Another viewer who watched online added, “I was teary off and on, but the love in the audience and the band was palpable… Praying for Raul as he prepares for his ascension into the arms of Jesus, and I’m praying for family, band members and friends who will be left behind.”

Other fans shared messages like:

“Can’t imagine a Mavericks concert without you… I pray you feel all that positive energy!”

“Tonite’s show was great… cried a few times, but by the 2nd half the music got me movin’ and I danced the rest of the night away.”

“Raul, the world missed you last night and tonight. Watched on Nugs—an incredible and emotional night.”


Malo’s Wife Shares Difficult Health Update Ahead of the Tribute

Just days before the Ryman celebration, Betty Malo shared a sobering update about her husband’s condition. On December 4, she wrote:

“Our love is fighting hard right now, but not a second goes by that he doesn’t appreciate all the love everyone shows him. The boys and I had to bring him to the ER earlier today, but Raul is stable and ready to fight.”

 Raul Malo and wife Betty MalGetty
Raul Malo and wife Betty Mal

Despite the setback, she said they were grateful for the tribute and encouraged fans to continue standing with them.

The two-night Ryman celebration became more than a career milestone. It showed how deeply Malo is loved and how strongly the music community continues to rally around him.

As Malo fights stage 4 cancer, one message remains clear from fans, friends, and fellow artists: they are still standing up for Raul Malo. Donations for his care remain available through the family’s GoFundMe.

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WATCH: Reba McEntire Steals the Show at Rockefeller Center With High-Energy Performance https://entertainmentnow.com/the-voice/rockefeller-tree-lighting-2025-hosting-reba-performance/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/the-voice/rockefeller-tree-lighting-2025-hosting-reba-performance/#respond Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:59:48 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5591255 Watch Reba McEntire's Performance

Hosting NBC's “Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” Reba McEntire set the tone the moment she stepped onstage.

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Watch Reba McEntire's Performance

The holiday season arrived in full force as audiences tuned in to the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting on December 3. Hosting NBC’s “Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” the country music icon Reba McEntire set the tone the moment she stepped onstage.


Reba McEntire Opens the Night With Sparkling ‘Run Rudolph Run

The “Voice” coach opened the show with a lively performance of “Run Rudolph Run.” Wearing an all-white outfit with a fur-lined coat and snowflake earrings, McEntire brought instant cheer to both the New York City crowd and viewers at home.

Her warm presence carried the night as she introduced a star lineup celebrating one of the most beloved holiday traditions in the country.

The evening also highlighted the biggest spectacle of all. This year’s Norway spruce, sourced from East Greenbush, New York, stands 75 feet tall and 45 feet wide. It is illuminated with 50,000 LED lights and topped with a 900-pound Swarovski star.


Reba McEntire Balances Hosting Duties With Her Run on ‘The Voice

Reba McEntire and Kristin Chenoweth perform during the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Getty
Reba McEntire and Kristin Chenoweth perform

McEntire’s performance comes during a busy stretch. She is currently a coach on season 28 of “The Voice,” which is nearing its finale. During this week’s Playoff episode, McEntire selected Aubrey Nicole as her finalist.

Her remaining three team members, Aaron Nichols, Peyton Kyle, and Ryan Mitchell, now look to America’s votes in hopes of reaching the Top 6.

The Voice - Season 28NBC
The Voice – Season 28

Nichols is also her pick for the season’s new Mic Drop Button feature. He competes against coach selections from Michael Bublé, Niall Horan, and Snoop Dogg.

Fans have already cast their votes, and the winner will be announced on the December 8 episode. The prize is a performance slot at the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day.

The two-night finale airs December 15 and 16 and features appearances from Khalid and XG.


The Rockefeller Tree Lighting Continues Its Beloved Holiday Tradition

US-HOLIDAY-CHRISTMAS-TREEGetty
US-HOLIDAY-CHRISTMAS-TREE

From classic songs to new seasonal releases, this year’s “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” delivered something for everyone. McEntire’s joyful opening performance and the star-packed lineup made 2025’s celebration one of the most spirited yet.

With the season officially underway, the night offered a warm reminder of why the Rockefeller tree lighting remains one of the most cherished holiday traditions in the world.


A Star-Packed Lineup Delivers Holiday Classics and New Favorites

NBC’s annual special filled the stage with a wide range of performances from some of music’s biggest voices. Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, New Edition, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and Gwen Stefani all delivered crowd-pleasing moments.

The Radio City Rockettes, celebrating their 100th anniversary, performed throughout the evening with their signature precision and holiday energy.

The night’s set list featured upbeat hits and timeless carols, including:

Gwen Stefani: “Shake the Snow Globe”
Reba McEntire: “Let There Be Peace on Earth”
Michael Bublé: “Holly Jolly Christmas”
Halle Bailey: “Last Christmas”
Marc Anthony: “Christmas Auld Lang Syne”
Brad Paisley: “The First Noel”
Laufey: “Christmas Magic”
Goldn’ Blues: “Joy to the World”
The Radio City Rockettes
New Edition: “Happy Holidays to You”
Reba McEntire: “Run Run Rudolph”
Michael Bublé and Carly Pearce: “Maybe This Christmas”
Marc Anthony: “Feliz Navidad”
Gwen Stefani: “Hot Cocoa”
New Edition: “It’s Christmas All Over The World”
Brad Paisley: “That Crazy Elf (On The Shelf)”
Laufey: “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”
Halle Bailey: “My Favorite Things”
Kristin Chenoweth: “Merry Christmas Darling”
Marc Anthony: “Vivir mi Vida”
Gwen Stefani: “You Make It Feel Like Christmas”
Laufey: “Santa Baby”
Radio City Rockettes
Halle Bailey: “Silent Night”
Reba McEntire and Kristin Chenoweth: “Silver Bells”
Brad Paisley: “A Marshmallow World”
Michael Bublé: “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”
New Edition: “Give Love on Christmas Day”

With the season officially underway, the night offered a warm reminder of why the Rockefeller tree lighting remains one of the most cherished holiday traditions in the world.

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Christmas in Nashville 2025’s Performers Lineup https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/christmas-in-nashville-2025-performers-hosting-performances/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/christmas-in-nashville-2025-performers-hosting-performances/#respond Thu, 04 Dec 2025 01:32:22 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5590380 Ne-Yo, Trisha Yearwood, and Lauren Alaina

“Christmas in Nashville" will include performances from country music icon Trisha Yearwood.

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Ne-Yo, Trisha Yearwood, and Lauren Alaina

If you’re up for a late night of holiday cheer, then you can catch the hour-long “Christmas in Nashville” special tonight! The show is already shaping up to be an event not to be missed, and the unexpected lineup of performers and sneak peeks of them onstage are generating excitement. 


How to Watch ‘Christmas in Nashville’ 

“Christmas in Nashville” will air on NBC on Wednesday, December 3, at 10 p.m. ET. The broadcast is right after the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in New York City, which runs from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. 

For those interested in watching “Christmas in Nashville,” it can also be seen on Peacock the next day, Thursday, December 4.


Who Is Performing at ‘Christmas in Nashville’

The host of any show has one of the most important jobs, and ensuring that audiences are entertained and everything runs smoothly is the queen of Christmas herself, Trisha Yearwood. The country musician will perform during the holiday special. She will be joined by a diverse list of performers to make the night extra memorable. 

Yearwood will perform “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” NBC shared a clip on Instagram of her singing in a sparkling gold dress. She looks gorgeous as she belts out the song, adding a country vibe to a Christmas classic, and fans love it! 

“Trisha Yearwood gives ‘You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,’ that signature country twang. #ChristmasInNashville tonight 10/9c | NBC and Peacock,” the caption reads. The post’s comment section has been flooded with reactions from fans eager to show their support. 

Other performers on the night include Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers, who will perform “Blue Christmas” and “Feliz Navidad.” Joining them are “American Idol” alum Lauren Alaina, The War and Treaty, Trace Adkins, and Ne-Yo. 


Ne-Yo Channels Christmas 

Ne-Yo is most commonly thought of as an R&B musician, but hearing him sing Christmas music is an absolute treat! NBC shared a short video clip of him performing on Instagram. “‘Tis the season!  #ChristmasInNashville tomorrow 10/9c | NBC and Peacock,” the caption reads of Ne-Yo onstage at “Christmas in Nashville.”

He sounds impressive, and fans have responded in the comments. “Sir, you have a gifted voice,” a fan shared. “This is the vibe we need. Pass the eggnog, please,” another comment reads. Other reactions include, “That christmas album he dropped years ago was really good,” “Beautiful,“ and “that voice!”

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Where to Watch Christmas in Nashville 2025 with Trisha Yearwood https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/christmas-in-nashville-streaming-where-to-watch-time/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/christmas-in-nashville-streaming-where-to-watch-time/#respond Thu, 04 Dec 2025 01:05:24 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5590367 Trisha Yearwood performing

"Christmas in Nashville" is another festive show to add to your television lineups this holiday season!

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Trisha Yearwood performing

The festive season has no shortage of entertainment and holiday specials, and for country music fans, a must-watch will be “Christmas in Nashville.” The show will air on Wednesday, December 3, at 10 p.m. ET and is hosted by talented musician and Grammy winner Trisha Yearwood! 


How to Watch ‘Christmas in Nashville’

It’s a big night for television tonight. First, the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be broadcast from New York City from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. This is a tradition that began in the ’30s and remains a popular event for residents of the city and beyond!

Following this ceremony will be “Christmas in Nashville,” which will air on Wednesday, December 3, at 10 p.m. ET. It will last an hour. The show will also be available on NBC, and for those unable to tune in tonight, it will be available on Peacock the next day, December 4.


Trisha Yearwood Brings Christmas with a Twist

In addition to hosting the show, Yearwood will also perform “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” Ahead of the “Christmas in Nashville” show, NBC shared a clip on Instagram of Yearwood wearing a gold dress and singing the song. She looks stunning, and she delivers superb vocals, as always!

“Trisha Yearwood gives ‘You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch,’ that signature country twang. #ChristmasInNashville tonight 10/9c | NBC and Peacock,” the caption reads. Fans have praised Yearwood in the comments. “That girl rocks the holiday tunes!!!” a comment reads. “A voice like an angel! Crystal clear!” another fan shared. 

This is a big season for Yearwood, who is fast becoming the queen of Christmas. She is currently touring with her “Christmastime with Trisha Yearwood: 12 Days of Christmas Tour.” There are multiple stops throughout the United States, including Nashville on December 3. “Join Trisha as she brings holiday cheer to the stage with festive favorites, timeless hits, and heartwarming performances that capture the magic of Christmas,” her website states. “Each night is a special celebration filled with music, joy, and the spirit of the holidays.”


Who Is Performing?

Joining Yearwood are performers Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers, Lauren Alaina, Ne-Yo, The War and Treaty, and Trace Adkins. Murray may be better known for his acting abilities, but audiences will be in for a treat watching him and his group perform. Their performance will include “Blue Christmas” and “Feliz Navidad,” NBC News reports.

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Dolly Parton Launches Surprising New Business Venture Amid Health Concerns https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/dolly-parton-business-venture-2026/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/dolly-parton-business-venture-2026/#respond Wed, 03 Dec 2025 14:52:45 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5589515 Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton fans have been concerned about her health in 2025, but the country music icon is still moving ahead with a new business venture.

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Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton fans have been understandably concerned about her health in 2025, but the country music icon is still moving ahead with a new business venture. As WKRN News 2 announced in November, Parton will lend her name and likeness to a truck stop chain, Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stops, a rebranding and expansion of the longstanding Tennessean Travel Stop. The flagship travel stop originally opened in 1974.

“I have spent the bulk of my life on the road, and more specifically on a bus,” the singer explains on the chain’s website. “Whether you are driving a truck, a bus, or a car, you want a place that feels like home and recharges you for the rest of your journey.” The first travel stop under the Dolly Parton name launches summer 2026 at the original location in Cornersville, Tennessee.


Parton May Help Revitalize Local Economies

Dolly PartonGetty
Dolly Parton attends Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs In Symphony World Premiere at Schermerhorn Symphony Center.

One potential benefit of this new business venture goes beyond Parton herself; the jobs the new travel stop chain will create may boost local economies. “When you think of Tennessee, you think of Dolly Parton,” state representative Todd Warner said in the WKRN news clip. “It will definitely help the economy.” The country singer’s manager, Danny Nozell, highlighted Parton’s love of supporting Tennessee communities in a statement on the chain’s website. “This project reflects Dolly’s love for her home state and her commitment to supporting local business, community, and the travelers who keep America moving.”

Infusing much-needed capital into small communities is nothing new for Parton, who breathed new life into Pigeon Forge when she opened Dollywood there 40 years ago. As Knox News reported, the beloved theme park now provides thousands of jobs during peak season and generates tourist revenue for surrounding hotels and other businesses.


The Singer Has Struggled With Her Health in 2025

Dolly PartonGetty
Dolly Parton performs during “Dolly: An Original Musical” fireside chat and press conference at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.

Parton seems to be perpetually on the move. However, health issues led her to take a step back in 2025. In September, the singer took to Instagram and postponed shows in Las Vegas. “As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures,” she wrote in part. Sadly, Parton also missed her induction into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Hall of Fame in November due to health issues. Instead, she accepted the honor for Dollywood via a video message.

Earlier in the year, she announced a break from songwriting after the death of her husband. “I can’t do it right now, because I got so many other things, and I can’t afford the luxury of getting that emotional right now,” she told Khloe Kardashian on her podcast. Although she’s certainly slowed down, this new travel stop partnership shows that there is still plenty on the horizon for the beloved singer.

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Where to Watch the 2025 CMA Country Christmas Special https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/cma-country-christmas-2025-streaming-where-to-watch/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/cma-country-christmas-2025-streaming-where-to-watch/#respond Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:23:25 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5588868 Filmed in Nashville in front of a live audience, the 16th annual “CMA Country Christmas” will feature one-of-a-kind musical performances of festive classics from country music’s biggest stars.

CMA Country Christmas 2025 returns with new hosts, top country performers, and multiple ways to watch live or stream the holiday special.

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Filmed in Nashville in front of a live audience, the 16th annual “CMA Country Christmas” will feature one-of-a-kind musical performances of festive classics from country music’s biggest stars.

Country music fans can officially start counting down to one of television’s most festive traditions. “CMA Country Christmas” returns in 2025 with new hosts, a fresh lineup of performers, and several ways for viewers without cable to stream the special. The show airs Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 9 p.m. Eastern on ABC, according to ABC’s official listings.

The annual broadcast brings together some of the genre’s biggest artists for an evening of holiday standards and original performances. The Country Music Association launched the program in 2010, and each year it aims to create a warm, classic Christmas atmosphere that reflects Nashville’s musical roots.


How to Watch and Stream

Viewers in the United States can watch the 2025 edition live on ABC when it premieres on Dec. 2. ABC confirmed that the special will stream the next day on Hulu and Disney+, which makes the program accessible to those who have moved away from cable. Variety reported that both platforms will host the full special beginning Dec. 3.

Rolling Stone reported that several live TV streaming services, including YouTube TV, Fubo, and DirecTV Stream, will also carry the ABC broadcast for subscribers who want to watch without a cable package. Many of these services offer free trials for new users.

People watching from outside the United States should check their local streaming catalogs. Availability can vary by region. Some international viewers use a VPN to access U.S. platforms. Rolling Stone reported that access is not guaranteed and depends on each service’s policies.


Who Is Performing

Lauren Daigle and Jordan Davis will co-host the special for the first time. Both artists will also perform during the broadcast. The full 2025 lineup includes Lady A, Little Big Town, Riley Green, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. The CMA confirmed the performer list in its program announcement.

The special films in Nashville with a live audience are typically a mix of country, pop, gospel, and Americana styles. The format often highlights artists performing holiday favorites in stripped-down arrangements or with full orchestral backing.


What Makes the Special Stand Out

“CMA Country Christmas” has grown into an unofficial marker of the holiday season for many viewers. The show pairs the emotional storytelling of country music with the nostalgia of Christmas classics, which has helped it maintain a loyal audience. The special consistently ranks as a popular December broadcast for ABC.

This year’s edition introduces new hosts and a wide variety of performers, but it continues to embrace the familiar themes that have defined it for more than a decade. For fans, it is a chance to settle in with a warm drink, hear their favorite artists welcome the season, and enjoy a holiday tradition that blends modern country energy with timeless Christmas spirit.

The post Where to Watch the 2025 CMA Country Christmas Special appeared first on EntertainmentNow.

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https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/cma-country-christmas-2025-streaming-where-to-watch/feed/ 0 5588868 CMA COUNTRY CHRISTMAS – Filmed in Nashville in front of a live audience, the 16th annual “CMA Country Christmas” will feature one-of-a-kind musical performances of festive classics from country music’s biggest stars. TUESDAY, DEC. 3 (8:00-9:00 p.m. EST), on ABC. (Disney/Connie Chornuk) MEGAN MORONEY ABC
Garth Brooks Hints at Closing a Legendary Chapter as New Anthology Arrives https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/garth-brooks-hints-closing-chapter/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/garth-brooks-hints-closing-chapter/#respond Tue, 02 Dec 2025 20:00:02 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5588529 Garth Brooks

Country icon Garth Brooks' new “Anthology, Part VI: The Comeback, The Next Five Years” is set to release on Friday.

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Garth Brooks

Country superstar Garth Brooks recently delivered a blunt, emotional message to fans with the release of “Anthology, Part VI: The Comeback, The Next Five Years,” he feels as though this chapter of his storied career may have come to a close.

“So when I say this wraps it up … it does kind of wrap it up,” Brooks said during a livestream on Dec. 1.

The six-disc collection, which drops December 5, serves as a sprawling retrospective of his comeback era: from dive-bar gigs and massive stadium tours, to his Vegas residency and a triumphant return to Ireland.

It features 60 songs, dozens of previously unpublished photos, behind-the-scenes stories, and live recordings spanning a decade of ups, downs, and reinvention.


Brooks Has Retired Once Before

Brooks framed this announcement by revisiting the first major pause in his career: his 2000 retirement, when he stepped away from superstardom to raise his children in Oklahoma.

At the time, he vowed never to use the term retire.

“I retired once,” Brooks said. “And God and the people were sweet enough to let me come back. I decided then I would never use the ‘retire’ word again.”

The “Friends in Low Places” singer previously addressed his retirement in “The Anthology Part IV: Going Home” back in December 2024, according to Whiskey Riff.

“It was one of those things. More than anything else at that moment, I wanted to be a good dad, just one-tenth what my own dad was,” he said on his retirement.

He added how he learned how difficult fatherhood could be after he stepped away from music.

“My job before that was pretty easy. ‘Honey, I’d love to help with the kids, but I got to go out on a tour where people are going to be screaming my name, and everyone’s going to be trying to make me happy,'” he said.


Not Necessarily Goodbye, But a New Chapter

Despite the dramatic proclamation, Brooks emphasized he wasn’t swearing off music altogether.

Instead, he described this as the culmination of one journey — capturing everything from intimate dive-bar shows to sold-out arenas — and suggested any future work would look different.

“Time is going to do what time is going to do,” he said. “I’m just lucky to have the chapters in my life.”

Such framing leaves the door open to whatever the future might bring: occasional performances, selective new work, or simply a quieter life outside the spotlight.

For now, though, Brooks seems content to step back from the constant pressure of touring and album cycles. He is currently slated to perform on June 15 and June 16 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Brooks is also set to play in London at Hyde Park on June 27.

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https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/garth-brooks-hints-closing-chapter/feed/ 0 5588529 Garth Brooks talks about if he would retire. Getty
CMA Country Christmas 2025 Schedule https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/cma-country-christmas-2025-time-schedule-channels/?adt_ei=[email] https://entertainmentnow.com/country-music/cma-country-christmas-2025-time-schedule-channels/#respond Tue, 02 Dec 2025 20:00:00 +0000 https://entertainmentnow.com/?p=5588176 Jordan Davis, Lauren Daigle

The CMA Country Christmas 2025 special airs tonight, so find out when and where to watch, and which country music stars will be performing.

The post CMA Country Christmas 2025 Schedule appeared first on EntertainmentNow.

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Jordan Davis, Lauren Daigle

Ring in the holiday season with CMA Country Christmas 2025, airing Tuesday, December 2, on ABC. The annual Nashville-filmed holiday special returns with a night full of festive performances, sing-alongs, and star-studded collaborations from some of country music’s biggest stars.

For the 16th annual show, it will be hosted for the first time by Lauren Daigle and Jordan Davis, who promise to deliver a mix of holiday classics and unique musical moments. Daigle teams up with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band for a joyful medley of “Jingle Bells,” “What Child Is This,” and “Winter Wonderland,” while Davis joins Little Big Town for a heartfelt rendition of “Go Tell It On The Mountain.”


CMA Country Christmas Schedule & Performances

The 2025 CMA Country Christmas special will air on Tuesday, December 2. It will take place at 9/8c on ABC, with it available to stream the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.

Viewers can look forward to performances from some of the biggest names in country music. The performances for this year include Lady A performing “Angels (Glory to God)” and “Wouldn’t Be Christmas,” Riley Green singing “Christmas To Me,” and Parker McCollum delivering a festive take on “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.”

Other performances for the night include Megan Moroney singing “All I Want for Christmas Is a Cowboy,” Little Big Town’s emotional “If We Make It Through December,” and BeBe Winans performing “We Are the Reason.”

We will also see a star-studded collaboration between Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, and Bebe Winans. The trio joins forces for the spirited hymn “Children, Go Where I Send Thee.”


A Holiday Tradition for ABC

CMA Country Christmas 2025 is part of the holiday lineup at ABC. The holiday special debuted in 2010. It has become a seasonal favorite, highlighting some of Nashville’s musical talent while also celebrating the festive spirit.

The show is produced by the Country Music Association, with Robert Deaton serving as Executive Producer, Milton Sneed directing, and Jon Macks serving as the show’s writer. The special will continue a CMA tradition of combining holiday cheer with top-notch country performances. It will offer fans both classic Christmas songs and new, one-of-a-kind collaborations.

ABC is a big collaborator with the CMA. It currently hosts the annual CMA Awards and the annual summer concert special CMA Fest. The network is becoming the home of country music’s biggest televised events.

Whether you are turning in for the first time or are an annual viewer, CMA Country Christmas 2025 is sure to be a night of holiday magic for fans of all ages.

CMA Country Christmas 2025 airs tonight on ABC at 9/8c. The special will then be available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu the next day.

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