Jet Atkins: A morning flyover of Nashville's riverfront by the Navy's Blue Angels opened – and Jason Aldean's Nissan Stadium performance of "She's Country" closed – the first day of CMA Fest (6/5). In between, country fans from "all 50 states and 33 countries" – according to CMA CEO Sarah Trahern – had no shortage of choices from which to curate their experiences.

At the stadium, opener Charles Esten staged a Nashville TV show reunion with Clare Bowen, Jonathan Jackson and Sam Palladino on "Down The Road." Ella Langley's four-song set included an appearance by Riley Green ("You Look Like You Love Me") and closed with current single "Weren't For The Wind." Green returned the favor, bringing Langley out for "Don't Mind If I Do," before wrapping with "Worst Way" and "I Wish Grandpas Never Died." Darius Rucker's half-hour set included "Alright," Hootie hit "Only Wanna Be With You" and "Wagon Wheel." Platform stage performers were Tigirlily Gold ("Forever From Here"), Max McNown ("Better Me For You") and Scotty McCreery ("Damn Strait").

Brooks & Dunn opened with Lainey Wilson on "Play Something Country," which will open the June 26 ABC special. Ronnie Dunn introduced "one of the coolest guitar players in the world right now," Marcus King, who ripped lead guitar and sang a couple verses of "Rock My World (Little Country Girl)." Night capper Aldean introduced Travis Tritt for "It's A Great Day To Be Alive" which, considering the late hour, could have been referring to either Thursday or Friday.