NASHVILLE, TN – The prestigious 18th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Honors celebrated the indelible impact of country music’s most influential figures on August 20, 2025, at The Pinnacle in Nashville. In a night brimming with heartfelt tributes and memorable performances, Eric Church was bestowed with the coveted ACM Icon Award, a recognition that honors his multifaceted career and profound influence on the genre. Adding an unforgettable moment to the evening, fellow artist HARDY delivered a surprise tribute performance, celebrating Church’s legacy.
Eric Church: A True ACM Icon
The ACM Icon Award, inspired by the pioneering Cliffie Stone, is presented to a country music artist, duo/group, or industry leader who has consistently advanced the genre’s popularity through their contributions in songwriting, recording, production, touring, film, television, literary works, and philanthropic efforts. Eric Church, a seven-time ACM Award nominee and winner, was recognized for consistently pushing the boundaries of country music, blending elements of blues, rock, and outlaw country into his unique sound. His prolific songwriting resume, leadership influence, and significant philanthropic contributions, including extensive support for North Carolina communities devastated by Hurricane Helene, were highlighted as key factors in his selection.
During his acceptance speech, Church reminisced about his humble beginnings, recalling his early days performing at Woodlands BBQ in North Carolina. He expressed profound gratitude to his dedicated fans, his close-knit team, and especially his wife, Katherine, acknowledging her crucial role in his journey. “If I did not meet her, I would be playing with Woodlands BBQ right now,” Church admitted, underscoring the personal impact of his career path.
HARDY’s Surprise Tribute
A highlight of the evening was the surprise appearance of HARDY, a six-time ACM Award winner himself, who took the stage to honor Church. HARDY performed a powerful rendition of Church’s song “Homeboy,” a track that has profoundly influenced his own songwriting career. “Eric, I owe every bit of my songwriting career to that moment and that song,” HARDY shared, highlighting Church’s inspiration. Following his performance, HARDY joined Church on stage for a moment of mutual respect, embracing the artist he considers a hero.
A Night Celebrating Country Music Excellence
The 18th ACM Honors, often referred to as “the country music industry’s favorite night,” recognized a distinguished roster of artists and industry leaders who have significantly shaped the landscape of country music. Hosted by Carly Pearce and Russell Dickerson, the event featured a series of moving tributes and standout performances.
Global superstar Luke Combs received the ACM International Award, acknowledging his significant contributions to the growth of country music worldwide. Ashley McBryde delivered a dynamic six-song medley of Combs’ hits, celebrating his international appeal and expansive streaming success.
Rissi Palmer was honored with the ACM Lift Every Voice Award for her pioneering work in championing underrepresented voices within the country music genre. Miko Marks, Madeline Edwards, and K. Michelle paid tribute to Palmer with a medley of her songs, recognizing her advocacy and impact.
The film “Twisters” received the ACM Film Award, inspired by Tex Ritter, for its prominent inclusion and celebration of country music within its soundtrack. The album accompanying the film featured 29 original tracks from various country artists, marking a significant cinematic-country music collaboration.
Other notable honorees included Cody Johnson, who received the ACM Spirit Award, a tribute to Merle Haggard’s legacy of authenticity and storytelling. Luke Bryan presented the award with a rousing performance of Johnson’s hit “‘Til You Can’t.” Lori Badgett was presented with the ACM Service Award, recognizing her long-standing dedication to the Academy of Country Music, with Victoria Shaw performing Garth Brooks’ “The River” in her honor. Mac McAnally received the ACM Poet’s Award, and Randy Travis was honored with the ACM Milestone Award.
Further recognizing achievements in songwriting and industry impact, Lainey Wilson was celebrated as ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year, and Jessie Jo Dillon was honored as ACM Songwriter of the Year. Jelly Roll received the ACM Lifting Lives Award for his significant philanthropic efforts.
The evening also included tributes to industry figures who passed away over the year, reinforcing the strong sense of community within country music.
The 18th ACM Honors, a testament to the enduring power and diverse artistry within country music, celebrated a night where legends were recognized, emerging voices were amplified, and the shared passion for the genre was on full display. The event, hosted by Carly Pearce and Russell Dickerson, underscored the collective commitment of artists and industry professionals to the continued evolution and success of country music.
