Comedy legend and accomplished banjo player Steve Martin will co-host the 2025 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards alongside Grammy-winning roots musician Alison Brown. This marks the first time the prestigious event will be held in Chattanooga, taking place on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium.

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) officially announced the dynamic duo for the annual ceremony, which celebrates the best in bluegrass music and inducts new members into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Known globally for his groundbreaking work in comedy and acting, Steve Martin is equally revered in the bluegrass community for his exceptional banjo playing and songwriting. He frequently collaborates with Alison Brown, a celebrated banjoist, tunewriter, and producer who also co-owns Compass Records. Their shared musical passion extends to their upcoming duo album, “Safe, Sensible, and Sane,” set for release in October.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm from both hosts. “I’m thrilled to be hosting with Alison Brown, and connecting with all my bluegrass friends as opposed to my kinda dumb comedy friends,” Martin quipped in a statement. Brown added, “The IBMA Awards show is always one of my very favorite nights of the year. I’m so honored to co-host this year with my banjo pal Steve Martin.”

The IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards celebrate excellence across 18 distinct categories, with winners determined by votes from professional IBMA members. This year’s gala will also honor the newest inductees into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame: iconic bands Hot Rize and The Bluegrass Cardinals, alongside pioneering musician Arnold Shultz. Nominees for the Distinguished Achievement Awards include Alan Arthur Knoth, Penny Parsons, Ron Thomason, Sidney Austin, and Missy Raines.

The annual presentation is known for its pomp and pageantry, featuring musical performances from many of the nominees and honorees. The awards show is a centerpiece of the IBMA’s “World of Bluegrass” convention in Chattanooga.

Tickets for the 2025 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards are available for purchase via Ticketmaster.