The inaugural Music City Rodeo kicked off in grand style in Nashville, Tennessee, from May 29–31, 2025, bringing together the thrills of professional rodeo with the soul of country music. Held at the iconic Bridgestone Arena, the event welcomed over 30,000 fans across three days, blending western culture with unforgettable musical moments.
One of the most talked-about highlights came during the opening night, when country legend Reba McEntire headlined a powerful 90-minute set. Known for her commanding stage presence and deep catalog of hits, Reba delivered a performance that celebrated her decades-long career while also spotlighting the next generation of female country stars.
Midway through her set, Reba surprised the crowd by inviting Lainey Wilson and Miranda Lambert to join her onstage. The trio delivered a show-stopping live rendition of their new collaborative single, "Trailblazer," much to the delight of the roaring crowd. The song—originally debuted at the 2025 ACM Awards—is a stirring tribute to the legendary women of country music, including Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and Tammy Wynette.
"Trailblazer" has already made waves in the country music world. Following its release, the single achieved over 2.6 million on-demand streams in its first week, making it the biggest streaming debut of Reba McEntire’s career. The track’s message of female empowerment and country music heritage has resonated deeply with fans, further cementing its place as an anthem for modern country women.
The Music City Rodeo, with its blend of rodeo competition and live concerts, proved to be a celebration of both tradition and innovation. Reba's surprise collaboration with Wilson and Lambert added a layer of historic significance to an already memorable event—one that honored the past while boldly embracing the future of country music.