Introduction
Trace Adkins Talks Cornbread, Karaoke, and a One-Song Set with Bryan West at CMA Fest 2025
Country music legend Trace Adkins has never been one to shy away from mixing humor with honesty, and his appearance at CMA Fest 2025 was no exception. While thousands of fans came to Nashville to see the biggest names in country music take the stage, Adkins’ presence offered more than just a performance—it gave fans a glimpse into his trademark wit, his southern roots, and his willingness to poke fun at himself.
In a lighthearted conversation with Bryan West before stepping on stage, Adkins opened up about some unexpected topics. Cornbread, for example, became an unlikely centerpiece of the chat. With his signature baritone voice, Adkins declared that no true Southern gathering is complete without it. “Cornbread is more than food,” he laughed. “It’s a way of life. You can’t sing about home, family, and front porches if you don’t understand cornbread.” His playful remarks drew cheers from fans, who have always loved how he connects everyday life to the heart of country music.
But the surprises didn’t stop there. Adkins also dove into a conversation about karaoke—a pastime you wouldn’t normally associate with a man who’s been on country’s biggest stages for nearly three decades. He admitted, with a grin, that he’s not the first to jump behind a karaoke machine. “I leave that to the brave folks out there,” he said. “But if I had to do it, I’d probably stick with something like ‘Friends in Low Places.’ That way the whole room would drown me out.” His humility and sense of humor showed a different side of the artist often known for his commanding stage presence and gravelly anthems.
The real highlight of the evening, however, was Adkins’ brief but memorable collaboration with Bryan West. Instead of a full set, Adkins surprised the crowd with a one-song performance alongside the rising star. The two shared the stage for a rousing number that blended Adkins’ seasoned vocals with West’s fresh energy. Though it was only one song, the chemistry was undeniable, and the moment became one of the most talked-about highlights of the festival. Fans were quick to post clips online, praising the duet as a perfect bridge between country’s past and future.
Adkins reflected on the experience with characteristic humility. “I didn’t need to sing a whole set tonight,” he said. “It was about celebrating the next generation of country artists and having fun with the fans. That one song said everything it needed to.” His remarks underscored his role not just as a performer, but as a mentor figure within the country music community.
As CMA Fest 2025 came to a close, Adkins’ mix of humor, heart, and humility left a lasting impression. Whether he was talking cornbread, joking about karaoke, or sharing a stage with Bryan West, he reminded fans why he remains one of the most beloved figures in country music. After all, Trace Adkins has never needed more than a few words—or a single song—to leave an audience smiling.