This morning couldn't have been much better. The weather was absolutely beautiful, with temperatures only in the low 60s. As soon as I woke up, I turned on Live at the CMA Fest 2026 and had it blasting all morning. Music is such a big part of my life, and there was no better way to start the day.

My two favorite performances of the entire concert were The Red Clay Strays and Stephen Wilson Jr. I love The Red Clay Strays' Southern soul, rock 'n' roll, and Delta blues vibe. That style of music really resonates with me. I also loved Stephen Wilson Jr.'s performance because I'm a big fan of his grungy folk sound.

I also loved the duet between Gretchen Wilson and Ella Langley. They were so much fun together! Gretchen is actually coming to our county fair this year. Ella also performed solo, and I always enjoy her twangy storytelling style.

One of the most emotional moments of the show came when The Band Perry took the stage to perform "If I Die Young." That song gets me every single time. I've always loved it, and it still brings tears to my eyes.

Of course, I was thrilled to see Tim McGraw perform. I loved watching him and his wife, Faith Hill, in one of my favorite TV series, 1883. To wrap things up, Tim was joined by Lainey Wilson for a fantastic duet that made for the perfect ending to an already amazing show.

As you can probably tell and to some of you may be a surprise I’m a country music fan. I listen to every genre. If a song speaks to me I’ll listen to it. Music has always been one of the biggest joys in my life and I truly love it with all my heart.

" And maybe then you'll hear the words I've been singin'
Funny when you're dead, how people start listenin' "