The spotlight turned to Austin, Texas, this weekend as the music industry gathered for one of country’s premier nights. The red carpet outside the Moody Center was a parade of bold fashion and notable appearances as artists and celebrities arrived for the ceremony.
Among the early arrivals was host Kelsea Ballerini, who made a striking entrance in a vibrant red ensemble. She was accompanied by actor Chase Stokes, with the singer recently sharing how their mutual support has been a cornerstone of their relationship over the past year.
Fashion statements ranged from elegant to daring. Carly Pearce chose a sophisticated black sheer gown, while Mickey Guyton captivated attention in a sheer design of her own. In a recent interview, Guyton reflected on her unexpected journey from artist to advocate, emphasizing the importance of representation. “Everyone has valid dreams,” she noted, “and it’s powerful when people can see themselves succeeding in any field they choose.”
The guest list showcased a blend of music and broader entertainment figures. Actress Emma Roberts made a surprise appearance in a soft pink dress, and television host Gayle King added a touch of glitter to the proceedings. Meanwhile, performer Amber Riley impressed in a sleek black outfit.
Notable couples also shared the spotlight. Lainey Wilson was seen with football player Devlin “Duck” Hodges, and the duo of Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO attended together, marking a return to the event after a concerning travel incident earlier in the week. Jelly Roll humorously recounted the pilot having to manually navigate their aircraft, describing the crew as “shooken.” He contrasted this year’s warm welcome with his debut just twelve months prior, feeling now like part of the community family.
Keith Urban attended the star-studded evening solo, and breakout artist GloRilla, beaming with joy, represented her Tennessee roots on the Texas stage.
The evening served as both a celebration of musical achievement and a showcase of the genre’s evolving, inclusive community, with style and camaraderie taking center stage.
