Reba returns to CMA Fest

McEntire last participated in the June event in 1996 when Fan Fair was still at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds and audiences were capped at 25,000 people due to space limitations. "I am thrilled for the opportunity to perform at the CMA Music Festival," said McEntire. "It's been 11 years since I've had a chance to be in Nashville for this amazing week, and the CMA has done a great job of growing the event during that time. I'm looking forward to being a part of it all once again."

"Reba McEntire is a true trailblazer, having elevated Country Music's profile throughout her career while being a successful actress, charitable spokesperson, and respected businesswoman," said CMA Fest Chief Operating Office Tammy Genovese. "We are excited to welcome her back to CMA Music Festival."

The festival will be held Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10, in downtown Nashville.

The lineup of artists includes Jason Aldean; Little Big Town; Martina McBride; Sugarland; The Wreckers, in their debut appearance at the fest and current CMA Female Vocalist of the Year and Horizon Award winner Carrie Underwood.

Other artists scheduled to perform include Bomshel, Catherine Britt, Luke Bryan, Sonny Burgess, Carolina Rain, Eric Church, Cole Deggs & the Lonesome, Heartland, Jypsi, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Blaine Larsen, The Lost Trailers, Neal McCoy, The Oak Ridge Boys, Jamie O'Neal, Jake Owen, Danielle Peck, Pirates of the Mississippi, Pam Tillis, and Chris Young. Additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks.

"The Country Music industry first welcomed me into their community at the CMA Music Festival in 2005, and since then, my peers and my fans have been so gracious," said Underwood. "I cannot wait to see my fans and meet and create new ones at this year's event. See you in June!"

"Last year's stadium performance during CMA Music Festival was one of the true highlights of my summer," says Aldean. "The energy from all the fans was electric. I look forward to doing it again in 2007."

"Country Music fans are so loyal and CMA Music Festival is the greatest way for us to reach them - the most dedicated fans in the world," said Kimberly Roads of Little Big Town. "We look forward to that special week in June every year when we get to say 'Thank you' to them personally for their support."

"We have such great fans who stayed through the rain last year to see us play," exclaimed Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland. "This year we are excited to have a chance to play a full set in good weather for all those fans who stayed and those who were rained out!"

The festival will be held Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10, in downtown Nashville.