CNN‘s “The Fourth in America” returns for its fifth year, featuring an impressive roster of musical talent to celebrate the United States’ 249th anniversary of independence. The six-hour spectacular will air live from 7 p.m. ET to 1 a.m. ET on Friday, July 4, featuring performances from some of music’s biggest names across multiple genres.
Leading the musical festivities is headliner Noah Kahan, the rising folk-pop sensation who has captured audiences nationwide. Joining Kahan are country music stars Lainey Wilson and Dierks Bentley, both of whom will bring their distinctive sounds to the Independence Day celebration.
The lineup spans decades and genres, featuring legendary artists like Sting, hip-hop icon Nelly, and alternative rock favorites Counting Crows. Electronic music producer Timbaland will showcase his innovative beats, while rock bands The Fray, CAKE, and Sublime add their unique energy to the diverse musical mix.
The special will be hosted by CNN Anchor and Chief Political Correspondent Dana Bash and CNN Anchor Boris Sanchez, broadcasting from Washington, D.C., alongside CNN Anchor and Correspondent Victor Blackwell and CNN Anchor and Senior National Correspondent Sara Sidner, who will report from San Diego.
Multi-Genre Musical Celebration Across America
The musical diversity continues with Kaskade representing the electronic dance music scene, while 4 Non Blondes bring their alternative rock classics to the stage. Country music gets additional representation through Ashley McBryde and the husband-wife duo The War and Treaty.
Nostalgia takes center stage with the “I Love the 90’s” tour, featuring Vanilla Ice. Hip-hop legends Young MC, Rob Base, and Tone Loc will also appear. The lineup additionally includes contemporary artists JoJo and B.o.B.
Adding to the celebration is the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, which will showcase New Orleans’ legendary jazz tradition. The United States Air Force Band will also provide patriotic musical excellence that honors the nation’s military heritage.
The programming builds on CNN’s New Year’s Eve tradition, marking another year of Independence Day coverage. The special has become an annual tradition that expands CNN’s programming beyond news into cultural celebrations.
The Fourth in America’s Coast-to-Coast Fireworks Spectacular and Live Coverage
Beyond the musical performances, CNN will broadcast fireworks displays from 16 cities across the United States. Cities participating in the fireworks showcase include Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Las Vegas, Nashville, Niagara Falls, New Orleans, New York City, Philadelphia, St. Louis, San Diego, Seward, Alaska, and Washington, D.C.
CNN Anchor/Correspondent John Berman, CNN National Correspondent Randi Kaye, CNN Sports Anchor and Correspondent Coy Wire, and CNN Chief Data Analyst Harry Enten will provide on-the-ground reporting from celebrations in Nashville, Fort Lauderdale, Washington, D.C., and New York City, respectively.
The special maintains strong partnerships with major music festivals and events, including Summerfest, BottleRock Napa Valley, Social House Entertainment, Nashville’s Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th, Philadelphia’s Wawa Welcome America Festival, and Fort Lauderdale’s 4th of July Spectacular! These collaborations have continued for several years, strengthening the program’s musical offerings.
Viewers can access the celebration through multiple platforms, with live broadcasts available on CNN and CNN International. The special will also stream live for pay TV subscribers through CNN.com, CNN connected TV applications, and mobile apps.
The post The Fourth in America 2025 Concert Lineup appeared first on EntertainmentNow.