The National Weather Service warned that Nashville is under a severe weather threat that could bring damaging winds and heavy rain.

Actor, musician and multi-entertainer Charles “Chip” Esten strummed his guitar onto the CMA Fest stage to start the Thursday line-up. As the charismatic actor grinned from ear-to-ear, he bellowed, "Hello Nashville."

Darius Rucker, Ella Langley and other stars offered sterling sets to kick off CMA Fest 2025's Nissan Stadium shows.