Grab your cowboy boots because the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards are back, celebrating a remarkable 60 years of honoring country music's finest. The 2025 ACM Awards took place on May 8, 2025, at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, drawing in a star-studded lineup of artists and fans alike for a night of unforgettable performances and heartfelt tributes.
Reba McEntire, a legendary figure in country music with 16 ACM Awards to her name, hosted the event for the 18th time, making her a familiar face on country music's biggest night. "I’m thrilled to be coming back to host the 60th ACM Awards on Prime Video," McEntire stated in a release. "It’s going to be an absolute can’t-miss show and I can’t wait to see everybody back in Texas!"
As the night unfolded, fans were treated to a dazzling array of performances. Notable artists included Kelsea Ballerini, Shaboozey, Blake Shelton, and the iconic Backstreet Boys, who made a special cameo. The evening kicked off with a spectacular 12-minute mashup featuring Clint Black, Dan + Shay, Wynonna Judd, LeAnn Rimes, Sugarland, and McEntire herself, showcasing songs that have defined the ACM Awards over the decades.
The 2025 ACM Awards also saw a significant moment as Keith Urban was honored with the prestigious ACM Triple Crown Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the genre. The event was streamed live on Amazon Prime Video, starting at 8 PM ET, allowing fans to watch the glitz and glamour from the comfort of their homes.
This year's nominations were led by newcomer Ella Langley, who received an impressive eight nods, including Female Artist of the Year and New Female Artist of the Year for her hit song "you look like you love me" featuring Riley Green. Following closely were Cody Johnson and Morgan Wallen, each with seven nominations, while Lainey Wilson and Chris Stapleton were not far behind with six nominations each.
Among the most anticipated awards was the coveted Entertainer of the Year, with nominees including Johnson, Wallen, Wilson, Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, and Chris Stapleton. The competition was fierce, highlighting the incredible talent within the country music scene.
Despite the excitement, some fans noted the absence of Beyoncé from the nominations list. The singer made headlines earlier in the year at the Grammy Awards with her country-inspired album, Cowboy Carter, where she humorously remarked, "This ain’t a country album. This is a ‘Beyoncé’ album."
As the night progressed, the presenters, including fan favorites like Little Big Town, Clint Black, Carly Pearce, and Gretchen Wilson, announced the winners, adding to the suspense and thrill of the event. The ACM Awards have always been about celebrating the artistry and dedication of country music stars, and this year was no exception.
Performers at the 2025 ACM Awards included a blend of established stars and rising talents. Ella Langley not only led the nominations but also took the stage to perform, alongside other notable artists such as Eric Church, Brooks & Dunn, and Miranda Lambert. The show featured a mix of emotional ballads and upbeat tracks, ensuring there was something for everyone.
In addition to the performances and awards, the red carpet was a spectacle of its own. Stars like Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman, Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO, and Lainey Wilson graced the event, showcasing their unique styles and setting the tone for a night of celebration.
As the 2025 ACM Awards concluded, it became clear that this milestone event was not just about the awards but about the community and connections within the country music world. The night served as a reminder of the genre's rich history and its continuous evolution, with new artists stepping into the spotlight while veterans like McEntire continue to shine.
The ACM Awards have long been a platform for recognizing excellence in country music, and the 2025 ceremony was a testament to that legacy. With a mix of nostalgia, celebration, and anticipation for the future, the ACM Awards continue to be a highlight in the country music calendar.
As fans look forward to the next chapter in country music, the 2025 ACM Awards will undoubtedly be remembered as a night filled with joy, recognition, and the enduring spirit of country music.
