NU-BLU BRINGS TWO DECADES OF CHART TOPPING BLUEGRASS TO CMA FEST 2025

North Carolina’s acclaimed acoustic powerhouse, Nu-Blu, brought their signature sound to Nashville for a highly anticipated appearance at CMA Fest 2025. Celebrating an incredible 20 years in music, the band, fronted by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Daniel and Carolyn Routh, has firmly established itself as one of the most compelling acts in bluegrass. Hailed by Nashville Entertainment Weekly as having a vocalist who is “the breathtaking heir to the kingdom that Alison Krauss built,” Carolyn Routh’s soulful soprano—ranging from a tender lullaby to a powerful force—is at the heart of their unique sound.

Over their storied career, Nu-Blu has released five Top Ten Billboard albums and garnered major headlines, including for their George Jones-inspired single “Jesus and Jones” featuring Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sam Moore. The award-winning band has also become a familiar face to national audiences through their role as hosts of “Bluegrass Ridge,” the globally syndicated TV show that reaches 120 million homes and celebrates its own 25th anniversary in 2025.

Their CMA Fest performance comes on the heels of their successful 20th-anniversary album, Where You’ve Been, a narrative-driven project reflecting on their musical journey. The album features the Top 10 single “When It Rains She Pours” and standout collaborations with music legends like Jim Peterik (Survivor), Jody McBrayer, Sharon White, and Ricky Skaggs. From the upbeat, blazing-fingers picking on “Horse Thieves and Moonshiners” to the poignant balladry of “The Will,” their live show promises to deliver the heartfelt storytelling and instrumental prowess that has defined their career and solidified their status as modern trailblazers of the bluegrass tradition.