Introduction:
Brooks & Dunn and Lainey Wilson Set CMA Fest 2025 Ablaze with “Play Something Country”
Country music fans at CMA Fest 2025 were treated to one of the most electrifying performances of the weekend when legendary duo Brooks & Dunn joined forces with modern country powerhouse Lainey Wilson for a live rendition of “Play Something Country.”
The Nissan Stadium crowd roared as the iconic duo took the stage, instantly reminding everyone why their catalog remains a cornerstone of country music. But the energy reached a new peak when Lainey Wilson strutted out, her signature confidence and fiery stage presence perfectly matching the anthem’s attitude.
Originally released in 2005, “Play Something Country” has long been celebrated for its playful swagger and honky-tonk grit. At CMA Fest, the live collaboration breathed new life into the hit, blending Brooks & Dunn’s timeless harmonies with Wilson’s unmistakable, gritty vocals. Together, the trio created a generational bridge—uniting the classic country fans who grew up with Brooks & Dunn and the younger audiences who have embraced Wilson as one of the genre’s brightest stars.
Dunn’s sharp guitar licks and Brooks’ booming charisma kept the energy high, while Wilson added her unique stamp with a powerhouse delivery that had fans singing and dancing along. As fireworks lit up the Nashville skyline, the performance embodied the very spirit of CMA Fest: a celebration of country music’s past, present, and future.
For longtime fans, it was a nostalgic reminder of Brooks & Dunn’s impact. For newcomers, it was a testament to Lainey Wilson’s rise as one of the genre’s leading voices. And for everyone in attendance, it was an unforgettable CMA Fest moment that will be talked about for years to come.