Robert Plant and Brandi Carlile Lead Star-Studded Lineup for 2026 Americana Honors

Nashville is getting ready to host one of the most anticipated nights in roots music. The Americana Music Association has officially unveiled its star-studded roster of performers and presenters for the 25th annual Americana Honors & Awards. The milestone celebration is scheduled to take place on September 16 inside the legendary Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville. Rock royalty Robert Plant is set to make a high-profile return to the historic venue. The former Led Zeppelin frontman last made a major on the Ryman stage 15 years ago, when his celebrated 2011 album *Band of Joy* picked up the coveted Album of the Year prize. Plant will take the stage for an exclusive performance to mark his induction as a 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.

Plant isn't the only heavy hitter taking the stage during the ceremony. Americana staples Brandi Carlile and Margo Price are both locked in to appear, alongside folk supergroup I’m With Her and breakout singer-songwriter Kashus Culpepper. The lineup also features live sets from a wide range of fan favorites and nominees, including Kathleen Edwards, Molly Tuttle, Flatland Cavalry, Mon Rovîa, and S.G. Goodman. Additional performances will come from Jesse Welles, Ken Pomeroy, Boy Golden, and Crowe Boys, creating a stacked bill that highlights both seasoned legends and emerging talents across the genre. Folk-comedy pair The Milk Carton Kids will resume their hosting duties for the evening, while veteran songwriter and producer Bud serves as part of the musical leadership behind the scenes.

A major highlight of the milestone evening will be a dedicated tribute set honoring global icon Dolly Parton. The country trailblazer is being celebrated with the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her timeless contributions to roots, country, and bluegrass music. With multi-nominees like Price, Carlile, and Mon Rovîa leading the competitive categories, the 25th anniversary event promises a night full of emotional speeches and rare musical collaborations inside Nashville's most famous chapel of sound.