Culture November 10, 2021

CMA Awards 2021: How to watch the show and what to expect

WATCH: CMA Awards performers announced

The biggest stars in country music will appear at the 2021 CMA Awards Wednesday night.

Luke Bryan is hosting the highly-anticipated award show, which kicks off at 8 p.m. ET live on ABC, from Nashville, Tennessee's, Bridgestone Arena.

In order to attend, audience members have to provide proof of full vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to the show. According to guidelines, face coverings are also required for audience members at the show.

MORE: CMA Awards 2021: Full list of nominations

Performers, presenters, nominees and all other members in the production are required to undergo testing and will be seated in an area separated from the audience by a barrier.

Ahead of the show, Bryan shared his thoughts on taking the stage to honor fellow artists in the industry.

"Being in front of the TV a lot with 'American Idol' has gotten me more comfortable with the role of doing these things," Bryan said about hosting the three-hour show. "I'm excited to be in the role and be confident in the role."

Country music fans are in for an exciting night packed with 20 performances.

Some of the artists who will be performing include Carly Pearce, Luke Combs, Blake Shelton, Brothers Osborne, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert and Eric Church, among others.

Editor's Picks

Some stars who are presenting at the show include Trisha Yearwood, Trace Adkins, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Darius Rucker, Ingrid Andress and Kelsea Ballerini.

Eric Church and Chris Stapleton go into the night tied for the most nominations, with five each in major categories, including entertainer of the year, single of the year, album of the year, male vocalist of the year and song of the year.

The 2021 CMA Awards will air live at 8 p.m. ET on ABC on Wednesday, Nov. 10. Those who have a participating TV provider account in select markets can also access coverage at abc.com or on the ABC app.

Check out a full list of nominated artists ahead of the show here.