Kelsea Ballerini’s Rain-Soaked CMA Awards Performance Stuns Nashville

Kelsea Ballerini delivered a breathtaking performance at the 2025 CMA Awards. The country star sang her poignant new song, “I Sit in Parks.” She performed live from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Wednesday night. Ballerini is nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year.

Her performance was both visually striking and emotionally resonant. It showcased a more introspective side of the acclaimed artist.

Kelsea Ballerini CMA Awards Performance

Ballerini began her set sitting barefoot on a swing. The setup was decorated with flowers and weeds to mimic a park. She wore a sparkling red gown as she sang the lyrics with gentle conviction.

Visuals of pouring rain appeared on screens behind her. As the song concluded, the digital rain seemed to soak her hair and dress. This dramatic effect created a powerful and memorable closing image for viewers.

According to Rolling Stone, the song is from her recent EP, Mount Pleasant. The collection of six songs represents a period of self-examination for the singer. Ballerini has described it as stepping further into her identity as a 32-year-old woman.

Mount Pleasant EP and Career Context

“I Sit in Parks” serves as the lead single for the new EP. The project follows her 2024 LP, Patterns, and its subsequent deluxe edition. It marks a continued evolution in her musical artistry.

Ballerini is a two-time CMA Award winner. She previously won in 2021 for “Half of My Hometown” with Kenny Chesney. This year, she faces tough competition for Female Vocalist.

Her competitors include Miranda Lambert and Lainey Wilson. The outcome highlights the strong field of female talent in country music today.

A Reflective Artistic Direction

This performance signals a more reflective chapter for Ballerini. The lyrics deal with themes of longing and self-assessment. It represents a maturing sound for the popular artist.

Over the summer, she mentioned taking a break from music. She told Rolling Stone she needed to “take a breath” before creating new work. This new EP suggests a fruitful return to her creative process.

The performance solidifies Kelsea Ballerini’s status as a dynamic and evolving artist. Her CMA Awards showcase demonstrated both vocal prowess and compelling storytelling. The rain-soaked finale of “I Sit in Parks” will be a lasting award show memory.

Thought you’d like to know

What song did Kelsea Ballerini perform at the CMAs?

She performed “I Sit in Parks,” the lead single from her new EP, *Mount Pleasant*. The performance featured a park swing set and dramatic rain visuals. It was a standout moment of the awards broadcast.

Was Kelsea Ballerini nominated for a CMA Award?

Yes, she was nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year. This marks another recognition in her successful career. She has previously won two CMA Awards.

What is Kelsea Ballerini’s new EP about?

The *Mount Pleasant* EP captures a summer of self-examination. Ballerini described it as a chapter of longing and personal growth. It includes six songs written recently.

Who hosted the 2025 CMA Awards?

Lainey Wilson hosted the ceremony from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The event featured performances from many top country artists. It was a celebration of the genre’s biggest stars.

Has Kelsea Ballerini won CMA Awards before?

Yes, she is a two-time CMA Award winner. Her win in 2021 was for Musical Event of the Year with Kenny Chesney. Her career continues to garner critical acclaim.