IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards Announce 2025 Performers: Steve Martin & Alison Brown, Del McCoury Band, East Nash Grass, Hot Rize and More

The International Bluegrass Music Association has announced the performers for its 2025 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards. For the 36th annual presentation of the esteemed ceremony, the organization will welcome more than 15 performers, including candidates for some of the ceremony’s top prizes.

Actor, comedian and banjo aficionado Steve Martin and acclaimed Grammy-winning banjoist and guitarist Alison Brown were previously announced as this year’s co-hosts, and are now also confirmed for two performances through the run of the show. Outside of their onstage duties, the duo are up for several high-profile honors–Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year and Collaborative Recording of the Year–at this year’s ceremony for their recent single “5 Days Out, 2 Days Back,” featuring Tim O’Brien and released in advance of their forthcoming full-length album Safe, Sensible and Sane, arriving via Compass Records on October 17.

Beyond the emcees, The Del McCoury Band, East Nash Grass and Appalachian Road Show are all nominated for the coveted Entertainer of the Year award and set to prove their prowess live. Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame inductees Hot Rize and The Bluegrass Cardinals will celebrate the occasion by taking the stage, as will Dom Flemons on behalf of inductee Arnold Shultz. Other scheduled performances include Jason Carter & Michael Cleveland, Della Mae with special guests, Wyatt Ellis, Rainy Miatke, Kristin Scott Benson, Gena Britt and many more. 

“This show always has unique collaborations and special performances,” said Jill Snider, Executive Producer of the Awards show. “One highlight will be the Della Mae performance which is part of the 100-year tribute to Hazel Dickens that has had a limited run across venues and festivals this year. There will be some surprises for our attendees, and collaborations that fans will not be able to see on any other stage.”

The 35th Annual Bluegrass Awards will be held on Sept. 26 at Chattanooga, Tenn.’s Soldiers and Sailors Memorial for the Performing Arts. Find tickets and more information at worldofbluegrass.org.