This is the weekend thousands and thousands of country music fans were supposed to descend upon Nashville for the annual CMA Fest. The event, which last year drew more than 400 artists to perform and over 50,000 fans, will return in 2021. While it’s not the same, we rounded up five of our favorite memories from 2019 to at least help us reminisce while we patiently wait for next year.

1. Carrie Underwood Performing With Joan Jett

Carrie Underwood shocked and delighted fans, of all ages, when she invited rocker Joan Jett to share the stage with her during her part of the nightly concerts at Nissan Stadium. The two ran through several of Joan’s biggest hits, including the 1982 classic, “I Love Rock ‘n Roll.”

 

2. Keith Urban Joining Billy Ray Cyrus and Lil Nas X for “Old Town Road”

Billy Ray Cyrus had already played earlier in the night, disappointing fans when Lil Nas X failed to show up to sing their record-breaking hit together. But soon, their disappointment turned to elation, when only an hour later, Cyrus joined Lil Nas X on stage, along with Urban!

 

3. Blake Shelton Singing “God’s Country” With Devin Dawson

It’s fitting that Devin Dawson joined Blake Shelton for his performance of the song, since he co-wrote it (with HARDY and Jordan Schmidt) and also sang background vocals on it for the album version as well. “God’s Country” landed at the top of the charts shortly before CMA Fest, and was certified platinum later in the summer.

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4. Ashley McBryde Singing “Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega”

Ashley McBryde continues to prove she doesn’t need fancy sets, designer clothes or elaborate lighting to capture people’s attention. The Arkansas native commanded the stage from start to finish, but perhaps never quite as much as she did singing this personal song.

 

5.  Tim McGraw and Luke Combs Singing “Real Good Man”

It was a match made in musical heaven. Tim McGraw used his set to run through some of his hits from the last few decades, before surprising fans with Luke Combs joining him for his 2003 hit, “Real Good Man.” Combs was supposed to also join McGrawlater this year for two stadium dates as part of Tim’s Here on Earth Tour. That tour unfortunately also was canceled due to COVID-19.