The holiday season just got a whole lot brighter for country music fans! The CMA Country Christmas 2024 Performers & Artist Lineup delivered an evening packed with festive cheer, powerhouse vocals, and heartwarming renditions of beloved classics. If you’re ready to dive into every sparkling detail, from the star-studded hosts to each unforgettable performance, you’ve come to the right place. We’re unwrapping all the details that made this year’s 15th annual special a true gift.
At a Glance: Your CMA Country Christmas 2024 Essentials
- Hosts: Six-time Grammy winner Amy Grant and three-time Grammy winner Trisha Yearwood returned to co-host.
- Aired On: Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. CT) on ABC.
- Streaming: Available the following day, December 4, on Hulu and Disney+.
- Filmed: October 2024, in front of a live audience in Nashville, Tennessee.
- Key Performers: Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde, Brittney Spencer, for KING + COUNTRY, Carin León, CeCe Winans, Amy Grant, and Trisha Yearwood.
- Special Highlights: A mix of timeless carols, modern holiday hits, and unique collaborations.
Unwrapping the Stars: Your CMA Country Christmas 2024 Lineup Revealed
The magic of CMA Country Christmas isn't just in the twinkling lights and festive decorations; it's in the voices that fill the room with warmth and joy. For its 15th annual celebration, the Country Music Association pulled out all the stops, bringing together a truly diverse and dazzling array of talent. From country mainstays to gospel legends and international sensations, this year's lineup ensured there was a song for every heart.
The Dynamic Duo: Hosts Amy Grant & Trisha Yearwood
Leading the festivities for a second consecutive year were the incomparable Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood. These two celebrated artists bring more than just their impressive vocal talents; they bring a genuine warmth and rapport that makes viewers feel right at home. Their combined experience and unmistakable chemistry set a comforting, joyful tone for the entire evening.
Grant, often hailed as the "Queen of Christian Pop," has a storied career that spans decades, embracing both contemporary Christian and mainstream pop success. Yearwood, a beloved country icon, is equally renowned for her powerful voice and her approachable persona, extending her talents to cooking and lifestyle. Together, they are the perfect embodiment of the show's blend of faith, family, and country tradition. You might even want to check out other iconic duets from Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood to appreciate their collaborative history.
The Star-Studded Performer Roster
Get ready to mark your favorite moments because the list of performers and their chosen songs reads like a holiday wish list come true:
- Cody Johnson: The Texas native brought his signature traditional country sound to a classic, performing the timeless "White Christmas" and also serenading audiences with "I'll Be Home for Christmas." His heartfelt delivery is guaranteed to evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing for home.
- Jon Pardi: Known for his neotraditional country style and playful lyrics, Pardi delivered a spirited rendition of his original holiday track, "400 Horsepower Sleigh." It’s the kind of fun, energetic tune that makes you want to crank up the volume and dance around the Christmas tree.
- Ashley McBryde & Brittney Spencer: This powerful pairing showcased their incredible vocal synergy on "Man With the Bag." McBryde's edgy honesty combined with Spencer's soulful depth made for a dynamic and captivating performance, proving why they are two of country music's most exciting voices.
- for KING + COUNTRY with Carin León: Talk about an unexpected, yet utterly brilliant collaboration! The Grammy-winning Christian pop duo for KING + COUNTRY joined forces with Mexican music star Carin León for a moving performance of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." This collaboration beautifully underscored the universal message of the season and highlighted the growing global presence in country music.
- CeCe Winans: A true living legend in gospel music, Winans graced the stage with her awe-inspiring voice, delivering an uplifting and powerful rendition of "Joy to the World." Her performance was a poignant reminder of the spiritual heart of Christmas.
- Amy Grant & Trisha Yearwood (Co-Hosts): Beyond their hosting duties, the dynamic duo treated viewers to a special joint performance, singing "Sing Your Praise to the Lord" and the playful classic "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town."
- Amy Grant (Solo): Grant also performed her beloved holiday hit, "Tennessee Christmas," a song that perfectly captures the cozy, heartwarming spirit of the season in the South.
- Trisha Yearwood (Solo): Yearwood mesmerized the audience with a beautiful Christmas medley, showcasing her vocal range and ability to weave together various festive tunes into a seamless, enchanting narrative.
This year's lineup was a testament to the show's commitment to delivering a diverse and deeply moving holiday experience, blending traditional country sensibilities with broader musical influences.
A Song for Every Heart: The Complete Setlist Highlights
The carefully curated setlist for CMA Country Christmas 2024 was designed to take audiences on a musical journey through the heart of the holidays. From solemn hymns to joyful anthems and playful originals, each song selection played a vital role in crafting the evening's narrative.
Here's a closer look at the songs that illuminated the stage:
- Trisha Yearwood and Amy Grant: "Sing Your Praise to the Lord" and "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" – A perfect blend of reverence and fun, showcasing their versatility.
- Amy Grant: "Tennessee Christmas" – A comforting classic that instantly transports you to a cozy, Southern holiday.
- Trisha Yearwood: A Christmas medley – A creative and beautifully executed series of holiday favorites, allowing Yearwood to shine.
- Cody Johnson: "White Christmas" and "I'll Be Home for Christmas" – Two quintessential holiday tunes delivered with earnest country charm.
- Jon Pardi: "400 Horsepower Sleigh" – A lively, modern twist on a Christmas tune, full of Pardi's signature personality.
- Ashley McBryde and Brittney Spencer: "Man With the Bag" – A soulful and powerful rendition of a lesser-known but equally delightful holiday song.
- for KING + COUNTRY with Carin León: "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" – A truly cross-cultural and deeply moving performance that resonated with spiritual depth.
- CeCe Winans: "Joy to the World" – An iconic gospel performance that brought powerful inspiration to the celebration.
The selection emphasized the enduring appeal of the enduring appeal of country Christmas classics while also making room for contemporary expressions of holiday cheer, making the special a must-watch for traditionalists and modern fans alike.
Behind the Holly & Mistletoe: The Making of a Tradition
CMA Country Christmas isn't just an event; it's a cherished tradition. Now in its 15th year, this annual holiday special has become a staple for countless families, marking the official start of their Christmas season. The show's success lies in its consistent ability to capture the essence of what makes country music and the holidays so special: community, comfort, and timeless storytelling.
Filmed each year in the heart of country music, Nashville, Tennessee, the special is recorded in October, long before the first snow falls, in front of a live, enthusiastic audience. This early taping allows for a polished production while still capturing the authentic energy of a live performance. The atmosphere during these tapings is often described as electric, with artists and audience members alike fully embracing the festive spirit, even if it's still pumpkin spice season outside.
The longevity of CMA Country Christmas speaks volumes about its impact. It stands as a beacon among the history of country music Christmas specials, continuing to evolve while honoring its roots. Each year, it offers a refreshing blend of established stars and rising talents, ensuring the show remains vibrant and relevant to a wide audience. It's a testament to how music can truly unite people, transcending genres and generations, all in the spirit of the most wonderful time of the year.
Catching the Festive Spirit: How to Watch & Stream
Missed the live broadcast or just want to relive the magic? No problem! CMA Country Christmas 2024 was designed to be easily accessible, ensuring everyone could partake in the holiday cheer.
The special originally aired on Tuesday, December 3, at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. CT) on ABC. For those who prefer to watch on their own schedule or want to experience the performances again and again, the special became available for streaming the very next day, Wednesday, December 4.
You can find the full CMA Country Christmas 2024 special streaming on two popular platforms:
- Hulu: If you're a Hulu subscriber, simply log in and search for "CMA Country Christmas" to find the full show available on demand.
- Disney+: Disney+ also offers the special to its subscribers, making it easy to watch alongside your other favorite holiday movies and shows.
This flexibility means you can enjoy the star-studded performances from the comfort of your couch, during a quiet morning coffee, or even as background music for your holiday decorating. It’s never been easier to catch how to catch your favorite holiday specials on streaming platforms. So go ahead, grab a cup of cocoa, and let the music fill your home!
A Deeper Dive: Spotlight on Key Performances and Collaborations
While the entire lineup delivered stellar performances, some moments truly stood out, showcasing the collaborative spirit and unique artistry that defines CMA Country Christmas.
One such moment was the pairing of Ashley McBryde and Brittney Spencer on "Man With the Bag." This wasn't just two artists singing a song; it was a masterful display of vocal interplay. McBryde, with her raw, honest delivery, found a perfect counterpoint in Spencer's smooth, soulful tones. Their voices blended seamlessly yet maintained individual power, creating a rendition that felt both classic and fresh. It was a clear highlight, reminding us of the unexpected magic that happens when incredible talents unite.
Then there was the truly groundbreaking collaboration between for KING + COUNTRY and Carin León. This performance of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" was a bold statement, bridging genres and cultures. for KING + COUNTRY, known for their powerful stadium anthems, found common ground with León, a prominent figure in regional Mexican music. The blend of their distinct styles brought new depth and dimension to a revered hymn, proving that music is a universal language, especially during the holidays. It celebrated diversity and unity, making it one of the most memorable and impactful performances of the night.
The co-hosts themselves, Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood, also provided delightful moments. Their joint performance of "Sing Your Praise to the Lord" was filled with a comforting grace, while their playful take on "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" brought smiles all around. Each, in their solo moments, further cemented their status as holiday music icons. Grant’s "Tennessee Christmas" is practically a holiday anthem for many, and Yearwood’s medley showed her ability to reinterpret beloved tunes with her signature flair. These individual and joint efforts truly highlight the deep talent and genuine affection these artists have for the season.
Your Festive Soundtrack Awaits: Final Thoughts & What's Next
CMA Country Christmas 2024 once again delivered on its promise: a night of cherished holiday music, dazzling performances, and heartwarming moments that truly capture the spirit of the season. From the familiar comfort of returning hosts Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood to the diverse and dynamic lineup of performers like Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde, Brittney Spencer, for KING + COUNTRY, Carin León, and CeCe Winans, this special offered something for everyone.
Whether you're revisiting the show on Hulu or Disney+ or simply looking back on the moments that made this year's broadcast special, the impact of these performances lingers. They remind us of the power of music to bring joy, inspire reflection, and connect us during the most wonderful time of the year.
So, as you deck the halls and trim the tree, consider adding the CMA Country Christmas 2024 performances to your holiday playlist. And as this year's glitter settles, we can already start dreaming about what musical gifts the Country Music Association will bring us for next year's celebration. For more details on this and other festive programming, make sure to check out our comprehensive CMA Country Christmas 2024 guide. Until next year, may your days be merry and bright, filled with the joy of country Christmas music!