CMA Fest 2024 updates: An eventful Day 1 closes on the wings a soaring Free Bird

Tens of thousands of country music fans have descended upon Nashville for the 51st CMA Music Festival starting today.

The next four days will see over 300 artists — including Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll — who will take to nine stages spread across downtown.

CMA Fest 2024: Nashville guide — from free concert stages to how much does it cost and more

CMA Fest road closures: See which downtown Nashville streets are closed

Follow along for updates throughout the day.

Lynyrd Skynyrd, the ultimate Southern rock closers

Yes, after having ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons join them for "Call Me The Breeze," the latest iteration of quintessential Southern rock act Lynyrd Skynyrd closed the first night of CMA Fest by playing "Freebird" for 12 minutes.

Had this particularly time-consuming act not occurred, the crowd that remained would've been unquestionably saddened.

Prior to playing, band members Johnny Van Zant and Rickey Medlocke offered that the band's recent connections via live performances with CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson, plus artists including 2024 CMA Fest co-host Jelly Roll and Elle King had heartened them in ensuring that the band's legacy and sound would remain a timeless tastemaker for another generation.

Seventies rock in 2024 works because many of modern country music's stories — like Southern rock 50 years ago — remain unflinchingly honest in the face of despair, plus also allow enough room for liquor-filled libations to ease the pain.

"Simple Man" hits the chest and soars to the heavens. At some point in the next 72 hours, Jelly Roll will sing "Son of A Sinner" on the same stage and approach that level of appeal.

The band is still as tight as the songs are peerless.

In a stadium setting, peerless songs have a palpable impact.

Post Malone, Blake Shelton make surprise CMA Fest appearance, unveil new song

Post Malone's further cemented his place as a countrified superstar Thursday night, as he shocked a crowd numbering into the tens of thousands with a surprise appearance at Nissan Stadium during CMA Fest's first night.

And he brought a friend to the party.

Solo, on the field-level Spotlight Stage, the chart-topping pop performer played a version of his Morgan Wallen duet "I Had Some Help."

Then, in a double surprise, while discussing his forthcoming debut country album, Malone brought one of his album's collaborators, 20-time chart-topping Grand Ole Opry member Blake Shelton, to the stage.

The tandem sang their unreleased duet, "Pour Me A Drink."

The driving country rock song fits into the pocket of work similar to popular artists of recent country memory, like Midland.

Thomas Rhett performs new, unreleased song ‘Gone Country’ at Nissan Stadium

Walking out to thumping kick drum and wearing a green button-down and backwards hat, Rhett started his set with “Look What God Gave Her.”

During the first song, Rhett went down to the crowd, touched fans’ hands and even took a selfie on one audience member’s phone.

“I never do this and it terrifies me actually,” Rhett told the crowd as he peered up into the top of the stadium. “Can I play you a brand new song?”

From his new album, which will drop in August, Rhett played his new song “Gone Country,” an upbeat, twangy feel-good tune. He sang, “Once she gone country, she never goin’ back / She feelin' right at home with her boots up on my dash.”

Rhett also performed songs “You Make Me Wanna,” “Crash and Burn,” and “What’s Your Country Song.” A seasoned performer, he smiled his whole set and brought the energy for his fans.

Aside from showcasing a new song, it was all about family for Rhett tonight. He sang “Half Of Me,” as he played on a mint-colored guitar with his daughter’s name, Willa, on the strap.

He told the crowd that with four young daughters at home, it’s been hard to bring his wife and kids to shows. But tonight, Rhett told the crowd that his wife was in the house to hear him perform his new song “Beautiful As You” live for the first time—a song he wrote about her.

Rhett ended with song “Die a Happy Man,” changing the lyrics and singing, “I think if Nashville, Tennessee is the last show I ever, ever, ever get to play / I think that I could die a happy man.”

— Audrey Gibbs, The Tennessean

Shaboozey brings a double-shot of entertainment to Nissan Stadium's Spotlight Stage

Four weeks have elapsed since veteran underground performer Shaboozey, a native of Washington, D.C.'s Northern Virginian suburbs, achieved chart-topping success on Billboard's country sales charts with his viral smash "A Bar Song (Tipsy)."

Yes, he's the same artist who appears twice on Beyoncé's March 2024-released "Cowboy Carter" album, but he didn't need a 32-time Grammy winner's co-sign to win over 50,000 people at Nissan Stadium.

His performance is only a few weeks removed from a Nashville appearance in front of 100 times fewer people at the Basement East club.

It turns out that his charisma, regardless of crowd, is infectious.

Fifty-thousand people finally settling in for the long haul of CMA Fest week screamed along to every crowd participation moment in the song as their voices grew in their approval and engagement in his performance.

Prior to his performance, Shaboozey spoke to The Tennessean about his influences.

The conversation included mentions of independent-minded classic and modern Western favorites Marty Robbins and Colter Wall, Kentuckian Tom T. Hall and modern-era Oklahoma-born breakout performer Wyatt Flores.

The R&B-meets-Western vibes of "Tipsy" may have brought Shaboozey from obscurity to somewhere in the vicinity of Nissan Stadium's 20-yard line. However, his statements and newly released album, "Where I've Been, Isn't Where I'm Going," clearly indicate a much more dynamic range in his offerings to come.

— Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean

Ashley McBryde brings out Gretchen Wilson to duet on 'Redneck Woman'

After Jordan Davis hit the stage, trio Chapel Hart took to the stadium’s platform stage and sang a haunting rendition of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” and their own song in response, “You Can Have Him Jolene.”

Ashley McBryde, known for tunes “Never Wanted To Be That Girl” and “One Night Standards,” took the main stage next in a sparkly jumper. She delivered a rockin’ 30-minute set that showcased her rich voice, thoughtful lyricism and even a special guest appearance.

The tattooed McBryde kicked off with electric song “Blackout Betty,” and sang “One Night Standards,” “Leave The Light On In The Kitchen” and “Women Ain’t Whiskey.”

Before singing “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” McBryde spoke to the crowd. “We wrote this song with hopes I would get to play the Grand Ole Opry,” she said. “And tonight I’m hosting CMA Fest with Jelly Roll."

She sang a reflective, acoustic version of the song for a full Nissan stadium. As her lyrics go, “Not bad for a girl goin' nowhere.”

“Okay CMA Fest. We tried to keep a lid on it,” McBryde said next, inviting Gretchen Wilson to the stage to perform her 20-year-old anthem “Redneck Woman.”

“She’s the baddest,” McBryde said.

The two duetted on the country classic, belting out, “I'm a redneck woman / I ain't no high class broad,” as the crowd echoed back, singing “hell yeah.”

Afterwards, the two singer-songwriters shared a heartfelt moment.

— Audrey Gibbs, The Tennessean

Jordan Davis brings crowd to their feet

“I know I’m shorter than you thought I would be,” host Ashley McBryde joked to the audience before introducing Jordan Davis. “I’m shorter than I thought I would be.”

At 6 feet, Davis strutted onto the stage in a backwards white cap, beige jacket, white tee and jeans. His hit, “Take It From Me” brought the crowd to their feet. The singer jumped into “Singles You Up.”

“I’ve got about seven seconds I’m not singing,” the country star said in the media room about an hour before an electrifying performance in Nissan Stadium.

“How we feeling Nashville?” he boomed continuing a fast paced sampler of songs.

Armed with a light brown to black ombré guitar, Davis strummed “Tucson Too Late" and “Slow Dance In A Parking Lot."

“I want to play you a song that I wrote about those three kiddos,” he said dedicating "Next Thing You Know" to his wife and kids.

Davis headed to the pit to high five fans during, "Almost Maybes."

"Thank you for making this CMA song of the year," Davis said before performing "Buy Dirt" with an additional, crowd belting chorus.

He closed out his set with "What My World Spins Around."

— Bryan West, The Tennessean

Thursday night kicks off with Craig Morgan

As the sun set over Nissan Stadium, country music star Craig Morgan brought the energy.

The kick-off included a five song set. Morgan mixed in classics, “Redneck Yacht Club,” “That’s What I Love About Sundays” and “International Harvester” with patriotic, country-themed anthems “Almost Home” and “Soldier.”

The Army veteran of almost 18 years took a moment to ask those who have served to raise their hands and receive stadium applause. He re-inlisted in 2023 and is active duty hoping to round his service to more than two decades. Morgan waved a red, white and blue flag to finish “Soldier” on a high note.

— Bryan West, The Tennessean

Bringing down the Spotify House with Tanner Adell

Tanner Adell, featured on Beyoncé’s latest album “Cowboy Carter,” hit the stage at CMA Festival 2024 Thursday afternoon.

Adell brought the house down, performing for a vibrant crowd inside Spotify House.

Decked in blue bedazzled boots and a matching cowboy hat, Tanner performed a list of her songs including her hits “Whiskey Blues” and “Buckle Bunny.”

During her set, she even surprised fans by playing the banjo as she sang.

After her performance, she described this year’s festival as “blazing.”

She is also set to hit the Nissan Stadium platform stage Saturday evening.

— Cache McClay, The Tennessean

Beyoncé collaborator Willie Jones performs at Dr. Pepper Amp Stage

Willie Jones, one of Beyoncé’s collaborators on country album "Cowboy Carter," performed at the festival’s Dr. Pepper Amp stage in the late afternoon.

His electric band, complete with a banjo, gave a rumbling, thumping performance of “Slow Cookin’" as Jones sported his fur-lined vest despite the heat.

Jones’ "Dive Bar" featured his shuffling dance moves and playful energy, making him a dynamic force to watch.

Jones’ collab with rapper Randy Savvy on song "Regulate" showcased the country-hip-hop combo that Jones blends so compellingly.

— Audrey Gibbs, The Tennessean

Warren Zeider brings all-black garb to Riverfront Stage

Warren Zeiders played a 4 p.m. set at the Chevy Riverfront Stage, clad in his trademark all-black and belting with his gravelly voice.Zeiders sang his first number one song on country radio and a now double-platinum single, "Pretty Little Poison,” asking for help from the audience, who shouted out the chorus.

The crowd sang the last chorus backed my piano and minimal help from Zeiders.

— Audrey Gibbs, The Tennessean

CMA Fest performances kick off at Riverfront, Hard Rock stages

Jackson Dean hit the stage early on day one of CMA Fest, taking the Chevy Riverfront Stage at 10:45 a.m. on the bank of the Cumberland River.

Fans showed up and showed out for Dean, Lainey Wilson’s opener on tour. He sang a gruff, electric version of his song “Fearless” and showcased a song he’d be releasing at the end of the month on the 28th.

Fancy Hagood performed an early set too, starting off with hearty tune “Don’t Blink” at the Hard Rock Stage at 11:35 a.m.

“I’m an independent queer artist and the fact that I get to do this and be here with you is f***ing amazing,” he told the crowd.

Hagood also performed some music he’d be releasing soon, like breakup song “That’s Life,” a quick turnaround from the EP he dropped on June 5 called “Smothered, Covered & Fried.”

— Audrey Gibbs, The Tennessean

Dolly Parton announces Nashville hotel, name of musical

Dolly Parton is a woman who isn't slowing down.

During Fan Fair X at CMA Fest, she announced plans for a Nashville hotel and announced the name of the Broadway musical based on her life's story.

"It's true that I'm going to have a hotel right here in Nashville,' she said.

Parton plans to open the Songtell Hotel at 3rd and Commerce, she said. The hotel will also feature a museum.

Parton also announced the name of the musical which is expected to open in 2026.

"That musical is going to be called 'Hello, I'm Dolly,'" She announced. "It's going to have a lot of original songs for it, as well as all the hit songs that you know."

More announcements and details: Dolly Parton reveals Nashville Songteller Hotel and museum plans; announces name of Broadway musical

Dolly Parton at CMA Fest: How to watch

Can't make it to CMA Fest to watch the iconic county legend Dolly Parton? No worries, we've got your covered.

Parton will kick-off Fan Fair X at 10:45 a.m. with a conversation on the CMA Close Up stage.

To watch, click the link: Live from CMA Fest! by Dolly Parton

CMA Fest weather update: More heat, some rain

What started as a low heat weekend has shifted slightly.

Temperatures will reach 90 Thursday before cooling down in the evening. Friday won't be as hot, but highs will crack 80.

Saturday it'll continue to warm up to 84 with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening. Sunday there's a chance of rain throughout the day.

Top picks for Thursday at CMA Fest

Here are a few ideas of who and what could create some highlights at CMA Fest's this morning and afternoon, before the evening's slate of performers at Nissan Stadium.

10:45 - noon

• Fan Fair X — Kicking Off CMA Fest: A Special Conversation with Global Superstar Dolly Parton hosted by Rachel Smith

  • Country Music Hall of Famer, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Grand Ole Opry member and global entertainment icon Dolly Parton will be in conversation with Entertainment Tonight co-host Rachel Smith. Parton's at Fan Fair numerous times throughout the week. If you miss her there (that crowd will fill quickly), we'll suggest Lainey Wilson's Australian and American tour opener (and himself a chart-topping country performer), the husky-toned, rock-tinged vocalist behind "Don't Come Lookin," Jackson Dean, is at the Riverfront Stage, too.

12:15 - 1 p.m.

• Riverfront Stage — Multi-platinum-selling 2024 Opry Nextstage class member and Lucas Oil-sponsored artist Chase Matthew brings his blue-collar image and multiple generations of fire and brimstone preachers to CMA Fest 2024. He's opening for Jason Aldean (among many others) this year, and the native of Nashville's suburbs brings the grit and soul familiar to many in the under-30 set of country's mainstream at-present to the table. He's a charismatic artist who, already has conquered the art of maximizing his minutes. If you pause and take some time, he's certain to win you over.

1:35 - 2:20 p.m.

• Reverb Stage — Emily Ann Roberts is a bluegrass-loving East Tennessean. The 2024 CMT Next Women of Country class member is likely also, at present, Blake Shelton's favorite country performer. The reason why? She's a 2016 alum of "The Voice," where Shelton served as a judge for two decades. "Whatever happens in my career, I want always to remain an approachable, relatable person grounded by faith and humbled by the opportunity to serve others and their lives," says Roberts to The Tennessean.

2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

• Spotify House — Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter" guest performer and "Buckle Bunny" vocalist Tanner Adell returns to CMA Fest in 2024 one of six beneficiaries of the 32-time Grammy winner's co-sign, but also a 2024 member of CMT's Next Women of Country class and growing viral appeal. "My fans show up, ready to embody their passion as an often unseen community of people," she tells The Tennessean.

6 p.m. - 7 p.m.

• Nissan Stadium isn't in the cards for you? Stop by Universal Nashville's takeover of 5th and Broadway's spacious Skydeck venue. Multiple-time solo chart-topper and former Florida Georgia Line member Tyler Hubbard's there. As noted in a Tennessean feature regarding his latest album "Strong," Hubbard's embrace of "arena rock and '80s funk-driven dance-pop sound under country lyrics that delivers best not on radio or record but in 60-to-90-minute concerts."

CMA Fest weather: Sun, low temperatures and small rain chances

Fest fans couldn't have asked for better luck with the weather. It'll be sunny, but considerably cooler and less humid thanks to previous storms.

Thursday will be the warmest day with highs between 79 and 88 degrees. There is a small chance for rain in the morning, but nothing severe.

The days following will barely break 80 degrees. The chance of rain does return Sunday so maybe plan to pack a disposable poncho in your back pocket.

How to enjoy CMA Fest for free

If you're trying to two-step on a budget, or just planned poorly and can't find a ticket, CMA Fest has plenty to offer for free.

Daytime, outdoor stages are all open to the public. Broadway will also be teeming with free games, activities and giveaways with CMA Fest partners.

The Chevy Riverfront Stage will open at 10:45 a.m. Thursday, and 10 a.m. the rest of the weekend featuring artists like Gavin DeGraw, The War and Treaty and Megan Moroney.

The Dr. Pepper Amp and Chevy Vibes stages will open at 11 a.m. daily while the Good Molecules Reverb and Hard Rock stages will open at 10:15 a.m.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: CMA Fest 2024 updates: Post Malone, Blake Shelton surprise crowd