Luke Bryan will make his CMA Awards hosting debut during the 55th Annual CMA Awards, airing live on ABC from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Nov. 10.

 “Being asked to host the CMA Awards was definitely something I put a lot of thought into before answering,” says Bryan. “The pressure that comes along with that can be overwhelming, but knowing I get to help honor and celebrate so many of my friends, I knew it was something I couldn’t turn down.”

“I mean, growing up in Georgia, I remember watching Vince Gill, Reba, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Rogers, Barbara Mandrell, to name a few. They were so good,” he continued. “And then becoming a part of this amazing country music family and sitting on the front row while Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Darius Rucker took the reins, all of these artists are heroes and friends, and I am honored to have my name included in this group.”

Adds CEO Sarah Trahern, “[Luke’s] fun and playful energy is something television viewers have welcomed into their homes week after week as a judge on American Idol, and I know he has something exciting up his sleeve for the CMA Awards.”

Performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks.