Country Music Association (CMA) officials confirmed that Grammy‑winning artist Taylor Swift will take the stage at the 2026 CMA Awards, marking her first appearance at the ceremony since 2013. The 60th annual awards will be broadcast live on ABC and streamed on Disney+ on Wednesday, Nov. 18, with a replay on Hulu the following day.
Swift’s return to the CMA stage
Swift’s last CMA performance was an acoustic rendition of “Red,” shared with bluegrass legend Alison Krauss and country star Vince Gill. This year she will join a star‑studded roster that includes Miranda Lambert, Kacey Musgraves, Cody Johnson, Tucker Wetmore, Tim McGraw, Zach Top and The Red Clay Strays. The lineup reflects the association’s effort to showcase both established veterans and emerging talent.
Nomination for Single of the Year
In addition to performing, Swift is a nominee for Single of the Year for her original song “I Knew It, I Knew You,” written for Disney‑Pixar’s upcoming film Toy Story 5. The track, which blends pop sensibility with country instrumentation, underscores Swift’s continued crossover appeal.
Broadcast details and corporate ties
The ceremony will be aired on ABC, a network owned by The Walt Disney Company, which also operates Disney+ and Hulu. The partnership ensures broad accessibility for viewers across traditional television and streaming platforms.
What the CMA Awards mean for country music
The CMA Awards remain a cornerstone event for the genre, celebrating artistic achievement and industry milestones. By featuring a high‑profile artist like Swift—who has built a massive fan base that spans pop and country—the CMAs aim to attract a wider audience while honoring the genre’s roots.
Fans can expect a mix of performances that highlight both classic country sounds and contemporary collaborations. The inclusion of Swift signals the association’s recognition of evolving musical tastes and the importance of bridging generational gaps.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
