Days after Sammy Kershaw announced he would not attend the 2026 CMA Awards after being snubbed from the red carpet, the Country Music Association and ABC announced that three major names will take the stage on Nov. 18.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Who Will Be Performing at the CMA Awards?
As PEOPLE reports, Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, and Megan Moroney are among the artists performing at the 2026 CMA Awards.
Also joining them will be Vince Gill, Mumford & Sons, Chris Stapleton, and Stephen Wilson Jr. In addition, Brothers Osborne, Luke Bryan, Halestorn, HARDY, and Marcus King will pay tribute to Brooks & Dunn, the recipients of this year's Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award.
This comes weeks after the first round of performers was revealed. Kacey Musgraves, The Red Clay Strays, Zach Top, and Tucker Wetmore are putting together a tribute to Dolly Parton. Cody Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, and Tim McGraw are also scheduled to perform.
The 34-year-old Wilson will be returning as the host of the 2026 CMA Awards.
"I couldn't be more excited to be hosting the CMA Awards again this year, especially with it being the 60th anniversary," she said in September. "I've had so much fun hosting the last two years, and this one's going to be extra special. Can't wait to see y'all in November!"
Langley has nine CMA Awards nominations, the most of any artist this year. Lambert is close behind with seven. The ceremony is scheduled to take place at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. It will be broadcast on ABC and Disney+.
The CMA Awards Are Working With Sammy Kershaw
Last week, Sammy Kershaw said he would not attend the CMA Awards. He was scheduled to take part in a tribute to 1990s country music stars, but the CMA denied his request to walk the red carpet.
In response, other stars shared their support for Kershaw, leading the CMA to state its "red carpet guidelines."
"Like any major televised event, the red carpet has criteria that exist to help manage limited space and the security needs for both the artists and the media. We are deeply sorry anyone felt excluded by those decisions," a statement read.
The statement said it is in touch with Kershaw's team.
"We also know this is about more than a red carpet, and we are committed to keep listening and keep finding ways to make sure all artists feel welcome and at home here," it added. "To that point, we are in touch with Sammy Kershaw's team and look forward to continuing that conversation."
