Keith Urban, the celebrated Australian-American country music star, received the prestigious Triple Crown Award during the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards on May 8, 2025, a recognition that few artists achieve. The ceremony, held at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, featured heartfelt tributes from fellow musicians Megan Moroney, Chris Stapleton, and Brothers Osborne, who performed renditions of Urban's iconic hits.
Urban, who first topped the charts with his 2000 hit "But for the Grace of God," has been a significant figure in country music for over 25 years. He celebrated this milestone with the release of his 12th studio album, "High," in 2024, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon. The Triple Crown Award is particularly special, as it is only awarded to artists who have won New Artist of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Entertainer of the Year at the ACMs throughout their careers. Urban's accolades include Top New Male Vocalist in 2001, Male Vocalist in 2005 and 2006, and Entertainer of the Year in 2019.
The evening began with Megan Moroney, who captivated the audience with a stripped-down performance of Urban's emotional ballad "Stupid Boy." Dressed in ethereal white, she strummed her sparkling guitar, setting the tone for the tribute. Following her, Chris Stapleton took the stage, delivering a soulful rendition of his 2016 hit "Blue Ain't Your Color." Urban and his wife, actress Nicole Kidman, were seen swaying together in the audience, lost in the moment as Stapleton sang. "We love you, Keith," Stapleton expressed, embodying the camaraderie and respect shared among the artists.
The tribute culminated with Brothers Osborne, who rocked the crowd with their energetic performance of "Where the Blacktop Ends." T.J. Osborne, one half of the duo, playfully urged Urban to join them on stage, saying, "Get your a-- up here." Urban obliged, hopping on stage for an impromptu guitar jam with John Osborne, showcasing his musical prowess and love for collaboration.
In his acceptance speech, Urban expressed his gratitude, saying, "First of all, Chris, Megan, T.J., John, thank you so much, that's amazing. To the band, too, thank you guys." He acknowledged the significance of the award and the hard work of his team and family, saying, "There's no such thing as a self-made man." Urban's heartfelt words resonated with the audience as he thanked his wife, Nicole, and their daughters, who were watching from home.
The ACMs, now in its 60th year, have a rich history of honoring exceptional talent in country music. Urban's recognition as a Triple Crown recipient places him among an elite group of artists, including Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Dolly Parton, and Brooks & Dunn. Notably, the last Triple Crown honoree was Carrie Underwood in 2010, making Urban's award even more significant.
This year’s ceremony was hosted by Reba McEntire, another Triple Crown recipient, adding to the event's celebratory atmosphere. The ACM Awards were streamed live on Amazon Prime Video, allowing fans to witness the star-studded event from the comfort of their homes.
Urban's journey in country music has been marked by numerous achievements, including 18 number-one singles and multiple Grammy and CMA awards. As he embarks on his "High and Alive World Tour" this month, fans eagerly anticipate his performances, which promise to showcase his musical evolution and enduring popularity.
Overall, the 2025 ACM Awards not only celebrated Urban's remarkable career but also highlighted the strong bonds within the country music community. The tributes from fellow artists underscored the respect and admiration Urban has earned over the years, making the night a memorable occasion for all involved.
As Urban continues to inspire fans with his music and heartfelt performances, his legacy in the industry remains solidified. The Triple Crown Award serves as a testament to his hard work, talent, and the love he shares with his family and fans alike.
