The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, also known as the ACM Awards, painted a vibrant picture of country music’s past, present, and future on May 8, 2025, as stars gathered at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. Reigning supreme for the second consecutive year at the ACM Awards was Lainey Wilson, who captured the coveted Entertainer of the Year award, solidifying her status as one of the genre’s most dominant forces. Meanwhile, emerging artist Ella Langley emerged as the night’s most decorated talent, sweeping an impressive five awards at the ACM Awards.
Legendary entertainer Reba McEntire, marking her record-breaking 18th time hosting the ACM Awards, guided the star-studded ceremony, which streamed live exclusively on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch. The night was a celebration of country music’s rich history, paying homage to six decades of iconic songs and artists, while simultaneously spotlighting the genre’s current luminaries and rising stars at the ACM Awards.
Lainey Wilson’s Continued Reign at the ACM Awards
Lainey Wilson’s triumphant evening at the ACM Awards saw her not only take home Entertainer of the Year for the second year running but also secure Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for her acclaimed project Whirlwind. She also added Artist-Songwriter of the Year to her tally, bringing her total wins for the night to four at the ACM Awards. Her back-to-back Entertainer of the Year win places her in elite company, joining Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift as the only women to achieve this milestone at the ACM Awards. This continued success at the ACM Awards highlights her significant impact.
“I love every single one of y’all in this category, and y’all have taken me under y’all’s wings,” Wilson expressed emotionally during her Entertainer of the Year acceptance speech at the ACM Awards, acknowledging the support she’s received from her peers. “I dreamed about entertaining. Country music has given me more than I deserve.” Her performance at the ACM Awards was a highlight.
Ella Langley Lights Up the ACM Awards
First-time nominee Ella Langley was the undeniable breakout star of the 60th ACM Awards, leading all artists with five wins. Her impressive haul included the highly sought-after New Female Artist of the Year award at the ACM Awards. Langley also dominated in the performance categories, taking home Single of the Year, Music Event of the Year, and Visual Media of the Year for her collaboration with Riley Green, “You Look Like You Love Me.” Her performance in the Visual Media category was further recognized for her role as producer at the ACM Awards. This was a major night for Ella Langley at the ACM Awards.
Langley, who also led the nominations with eight nods for the ACM Awards, expressed her elation, stating she was “on cloud nine” at the end of the night. Her rapid ascent marks a significant moment for the rising artist in the country music landscape, a true highlight of the ACM Awards.
Chris Stapleton and Jessie Jo Dillon Maintain Momentum at the ACM Awards
Veteran powerhouse Chris Stapleton continued his winning streak at the ACM Awards, earning Male Artist of the Year for the second consecutive year and his fifth career win in the category. He is now just one award shy of tying Alan Jackson’s record in this highly competitive field. Stapleton also delivered memorable performances at the ACM Awards, including a rendition of “Blue Ain’t Your Color” as part of a tribute to Keith Urban. His consistent presence at the ACM Awards is a testament to his enduring talent.
Jessie Jo Dillon received significant acclaim at the ACM Awards, securing Songwriter of the Year for the second year in a row. Her win was announced as a surprise by frequent collaborator Kelsea Ballerini during ACM Country Kickoff. Dillon’s consistent recognition highlights her exceptional talent in crafting compelling narratives within country music, a testament to her songwriting prowess celebrated at the ACM Awards.
Breakthrough Artists and Timeless Hits at the ACM Awards
The night also celebrated new talent at the ACM Awards, with Zach Top earning New Male Artist of the Year and The Red Clay Strays taking home New Duo or Group of the Year. Cody Johnson’s “Dirt Cheap,” penned by Josh Phillips, was crowned Song of the Year, marking a significant achievement for the Texas native at the ACM Awards. These wins showcase the future of Country Music Awards.
Old Dominion secured Group of the Year for the ninth consecutive time at the ACM Awards, extending their own record and cementing their status as a dominant force in country music groups. Brooks & Dunn continued their legacy, winning Duo of the Year for the 17th time at the ACM Awards, further expanding their all-time record in the category.
Honoring Country Music Icons at the ACM Awards
A significant highlight of the evening at the ACM Awards was the presentation of the inaugural ACM Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award to country music legend Alan Jackson. The award, which will now bear his name, recognizes his profound impact, enduring legacy, and contributions to the genre. Jackson delivered an emotional performance of his hit “Remember When” before accepting the honor at the ACM Awards, expressing his profound gratitude and disbelief.
Keith Urban was also honored with the ACM Triple Crown Award at the ACM Awards, a prestigious accolade celebrating artists who have won New Artist, Male/Female Artist, and Entertainer of the Year awards. The tribute at the ACM Awards featured performances by Chris Stapleton, Megan Moroney, and Brothers Osborne.
A Milestone Celebration of the ACM Awards
The ceremony opened with a spectacular 12-minute medley celebrating six decades of ACM Songs of the Year. Reba McEntire led the tribute with Merle Haggard’s “Okie from Muskogee,” followed by performances from Clint Black, Wynonna Judd, LeAnn Rimes, Little Big Town, and Dan + Shay, setting a celebratory tone for the milestone event that was the ACM Awards.
The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards served as a powerful testament to the enduring appeal and constant evolution of country music. With major wins for established stars like Lainey Wilson and Chris Stapleton, the impressive emergence of artists like Ella Langley, and the well-deserved accolades for legends like Alan Jackson, the night underscored the genre’s vibrant present and promising future. The ACM Awards continue to be a cornerstone event for country music news and celebration, providing essential Country Music News.
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