ACM Awards 2025: Lainey Wilson & Chris Stapleton Dominate, Tributes & Texas Flair Steal the Show
The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, a landmark celebration of country music's finest, streamed live from the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, captivating audiences with stellar performances and heartfelt tributes. Hosted by the iconic Reba McEntire for the 18th time, the event showcased both established legends and rising stars, marking a significant moment for the genre.
Lainey Wilson emerged as a dominant force, securing the coveted Entertainer of the Year award for the second consecutive year, alongside Female Artist of the Year, Album Of The Year (for "Whirlwind"), and Artist-Songwriter of the Year. Not far behind, Chris Stapleton took home Male Artist of the Year for the fifth time, adding to his impressive collection of ACM Awards. Stapleton's win was particularly poignant, as he dedicated the award to his late friend, Ben Vaughn, highlighting the deep sense of community and remembrance within the country music world.
The awards weren't just about celebrating current achievements; they also honored the genre's rich history. A 12-minute opening medley, featuring songs of the year from the last six decades, brought together legends like Clint Black, Wynonna Judd, and LeAnn Rimes, offering a nostalgic journey through country music's evolution. Alan Jackson, the recipient of a lifetime achievement award named in his honor, delivered a moving rendition of "Remember When."
Texas pride was on full display throughout the night. From the venue itself, The Star in Frisco, to the performances and winners, the Lone Star State's influence was undeniable. Miranda Lambert, an East Texas native, joined forces with Reba McEntire and Lainey Wilson to debut their single "Trailblazer." Cody Johnson, a Texas native, secured Song of the Year with “Dirt Cheap,” a moment he connected to his early songwriting days in Texas.
Newcomer Ella Langley made a splash, winning Single of the Year and Music Event of the Year for her collaboration with Riley Green on "You Look Like You Love Me." The song's win highlighted the power of collaborations in country music, and solidified Langley's place as one the genre's the most exciting rising stars.
There were snubs too. Despite multiple nominations, Post Malone, venturing into the country music scene with his album F-1 Trillion, didn't take home any trophies. However, his presence and nominations signaled a growing trend of genre-bending and cross-pollination within the music industry.
The evening concluded with a surprising collaboration between Rascal Flatts and the Backstreet Boys, blending country and pop hits in a memorable finale. From emotional tributes to unexpected collaborations, the event showcased the evolution and enduring appeal of country music.
The 60th ACM Awards served as a potent reminder that country music welcomes diversity, honors its past and always looks towards the horizon. What were your favorite moments from the ACM Awards? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Where are the ACM Awards 2025?
The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards were held on May 8, 2025, at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. Reba McEntire returned host.
When are the ACM awards?
The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
Where are the country music awards held?
The Academy of Country Music Awards first arrived in Texas for their 50th show in 2015 at Arlington's AT&T Stadium. The party migrated north to Frisco in 2023 and it's stayed there since.
Who won the ACM artist of the year?
The night's top honor, the Entertainer of the Year, went to Lainey Wilson. She also took home Album of the Year for Whirlwind. Chris Stapleton claimed Male Artist of the Year, while Old Dominion earned their record-setting ninth win for Group of the Yearu2014making them the most awarded group in ACM history.
