SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour at Chief’s Was the Spot at CMA Fest 2025

If there was one place to be during CMA Fest 2025, it was hands-down Chief’s, Eric Church’s new bar on Broadway—and not just for the drinks and rooftop views. SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour took over the spot all weekend long, bringing non-stop country energy and surprise after surprise.

Hosted live by The Highway, the happy hour was more like a full-blown party that just happened to be broadcast coast to coast. From the second the doors opened to the moment Eric Church himself stepped on stage, it was nothing short of electric.

Surprise Guests Around Every Corner

You never really knew who was going to show up next—and that was half the fun.

Across the span of the weekend, we saw Ashley Cooke, Maddie & Tae, Alana Springsteen, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Lanie Gardner, and Austin Snell—all dropping in to chat, play acoustic sets, and hang with fans like it was the most casual thing in the world.

Then came the heavy-hitters: Brothers Osborne brought the grit and groove, Ashley McBryde lit the room on fire with her raw vocals, and Marcus King tore the place down with his bluesy, rock-soaked sound. Warren Zeiders and Kameron Marlowe kept the energy high, proving they’re more than just names on a lineup—they’re the next wave of country stars.

Each artist brought their own flavor, but the one common thread? Everyone was having fun. You could feel it—this wasn’t just press or promo, it was friends, fans, and artists coming together for the love of music.

Eric Church’s Grand Entrance

Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, Eric Church made a surprise appearance at his own bar. The crowd went wild.

There’s something so surreal about seeing one of country music’s biggest legends walk into his very own bar. No major announcement, no ego—just Eric, shades on, doing what he does best.

He didn’t need a full set to make an impact. Just showing up reminded everyone: Chief isn’t just a nickname. It’s a whole movement.

A CMA Fest Staple, Elevated

SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour has always been a fan favorite during CMA Fest, but hosting it at Chief’s took things to a whole new level. It wasn’t just a show—it was an experience. Rooftop views, cold drinks, legendary drop-ins, and a vibe that felt like classic Nashville with a twist.

And honestly, it felt like the heart of CMA Fest was beating right inside that bar.

Final Thoughts

If you spent any time at Chief’s during the Music Row Happy Hour, you know: this year hit different. Whether you caught one acoustic set or stayed all day, you witnessed something special. It was one of those “remember when”moments CMA Fest fans will be talking about for years.

And if Eric Church decides to pop in again next year? You already know where we’ll be.