Kelsea Ballerini Set to Debut 'I Sit In Parks' at the 2025 CMA Awards

The 59th Annual CMA Awards is set to host a major musical moment as Kelsea Ballerini takes the stage for the very first live performance of her new track, “I Sit In Parks.” This highly anticipated debut is scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025, emanating live from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. Fans who can’t catch the broadcast live on ABC will have the opportunity to stream the event the following day exclusively on Hulu. This performance marks a significant milestone for the artist, cementing her place among the night's headliners.

The song Ballerini is premiering serves as the lead single from her recently released mini-album, *Mount Pleasant*. The EP hit the airwaves just days before the ceremony, dropping on November 14, 2025. *Mount Pleasant* features a total of six compositions, including previously announced tracks such as “People Pleaser” and “Emerald City.” Critics note that the new material skillfully blends profound, introspective lyrics with a contemporary sound, underscoring Ballerini’s ambition to solidify her influence within the evolving country music genre.

Beyond her role as a performer, Ballerini is also a contender for one of the night’s most prestigious honors. She secured a nomination in the highly competitive “Female Vocalist of the Year” category. She faces stiff competition from a powerhouse lineup of artists, including Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, and the night’s host, Lainey Wilson. Her scheduled appearance at the CMA Awards is a strategic move in her ongoing musical campaign, highlighting her active and influential participation in the Nashville songwriting community.

The evening’s proceedings will be guided by Lainey Wilson, who is making history as the sole host. This marks only the third instance in the history of the CMA Awards where a single woman has taken the reins, following the pioneering efforts of Dolly Parton in 1988 and Reba McEntire in 1991. The program promises a star-studded roster of talent, featuring performances from established acts and rising stars alike, including Luke Combs, Megan Moroney, and Ella Langley. Furthermore, the prestigious Willie Nelson Award will be presented to country music legend Vince Gill, recognizing his enduring contributions to the genre.

The CMA Awards have been recognizing excellence in country music since their inception in 1967, establishing a deep tradition within the industry. Since 2006, the Bridgestone Arena has served as the permanent home for the annual celebration. The rigorous voting process ensures that only the most significant achievements are honored; this year, the selections were made by 7,132 voting members of the Country Music Association. These members cast their ballots based on work released during the eligibility period spanning from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. The ceremony is poised to be a vibrant showcase, merging performances by newcomers with appearances by key genre figures, reflecting the dynamic evolution of country music in 2025.