What achievements did Lainey Wilson garner at the 60th ACM Awards?
Which artists performed during the ceremony and what was notable about their performances?
How did Ella Langley stand out at the ACM Awards based on her nominations and wins?
What recognition did Alan Jackson receive during the event?
Which song took home the award for Song of the Year, and who performed it?
Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley, and Riley Green were among the biggest winners at the 60th ACM Awards held at the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas, Thursday night, with Chris Stapleton winning for male artist of the year and Wilson for female artist of the year and entertainer of the year.
Wilson, who won entertainer of the year last year, also took home the award for album of the year for Whirlwind, as well as artist-songwriter of the year.
The award for song of the year, presented by Lionel Richie, went to Cody Johnson for “Dirt Cheap,” while host Reba McEntire presented the award for single of the year to Langley and Green for “You Look Like You Love Me.” Old Dominion was named group of the year and Brooks & Dunn won the award for duo of the year.
Langley came into the night with the most nominations with eight, and the ACMs had already announced her as the new female artist of the year back in April, and her breakout hit “You Look Like You Love Me” with Green won for visual media of the year over the weekend.
Zach Top was also named new male artist of the year back in April, while Red Clay Strays won for best new duo or group of the year.
The night was filled with performances, from a star-studded opening segment with Reba McEntire, Clint Black, Winona Judd, LeAnn Rhymes, and Dan + Shay, to a collaboration between Rascal Flatts and the Backstreet Boys. Stapleton, Alan Jackson, Eric Church, Blake Shelton, Kelsea Ballerini, LeAnn Rimes, and Wilson also performed, among others.
Alan Jackson, who became the first recipient of the honor called the ACM Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award, performed later during the ceremony. Keith Urban also earned the ACM Triple Crown Award.
A full list of 2025 ACM Awards winners follows.
ACM Awards 2025: See All The Winners
The 2025 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards have come and gone, and this year’s ceremony celebrated not just the luminaries of country music but also the genre’s rich traditions and evolving sounds. The event took place at the iconic Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, bringing together fans and artists for a night filled with performances, emotional moments, and, of course, the announcement of the winners across numerous categories.
A Night of Glitz and Glamour
The 2025 ACM Awards showcased a dazzling array of performances that highlighted both established stars and emerging talents. The red carpet was a spectacle in itself, with artists donning their best outfits and sharing their excitement for the evening ahead. Fans tuned in eagerly to witness their favorite stars in one of country music’s biggest nights.
Major Winners of the Evening
Entertainer of the Year
Taking home the coveted title of Entertainer of the Year was none other than Luke Combs. Known for his heartfelt lyrics and powerhouse vocals, Combs’s win further solidified his status as one of the leading figures in contemporary country music. His electrifying performances and deep connection with audiences have made him a fan favorite, and this award is a testament to his unwavering hard work and consistent delivery of quality music.
Album of the Year
Miranda Lambert won Album of the Year for her heartfelt release, Palomino. This album marked a significant milestone in Lambert’s career, showcasing her growth as an artist and her ability to tell compelling stories through her music. The album resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, leading to its recognition at this year’s ACM Awards.
Female Vocalist of the Year
In a category filled with talented contenders, Lainey Wilson emerged victorious as the Female Vocalist of the Year. Wilson’s unique sound and authentic approach to storytelling have garnered her widespread acclaim, and her performances continue to captivate audiences. This award underscores her talent and the impact she’s making on the country music scene.
Male Vocalist of the Year
Chris Stapleton, with his gritty voice and musical prowess, won the Male Vocalist of the Year award. Stapleton’s ability to blend traditional country with elements of rock and blues has earned him a unique place in the industry. His craftsmanship in songwriting and remarkable stage presence were celebrated with this well-deserved accolade.
New Artist of the Year
The New Artist of the Year award went to Megan Moroney, who has quickly garnered attention for her catchy melodies and relatable lyrics. Her breakout single resonated with fans, and her fresh energy is a promising addition to the future of country music. This award shines a light on her potential and the bright future ahead.
Collaborative Excellence
Duo of the Year
The award for Duo of the Year was claimed by Brothers Osborne, known for their harmonious blend of voices and strong musical chemistry. Their dedication to authentic storytelling and musicianship has made them a staple in modern country music.
Group of the Year
Old Dominion took home the Group of the Year award, reinforcing their position as one of the most dynamic groups in the genre. Their innovative sound and catchy hooks have earned them a loyal fan base and critical admiration.
Vocal Event of the Year
This year’s Vocal Event of the Year was awarded to Kelsea Ballerini and Carly Pearce for their collaboration on the single "Greater Than." The song showcased their vocal prowess and shared experiences, highlighting the power of collaboration in country music.
Special Recognitions
Song of the Year
The Song of the Year award went to Zach Bryan for his poignant ballad, "Something in the Orange." His ability to weave raw emotions into his lyrics has connected with countless fans, making him one of the most talked-about artists of the year.
Best Music Video
Carly Pearce also struck gold in the Best Music Video category for her hauntingly beautiful video for "Never Wanted to be That Girl," a collaboration with Ashley McBryde. The video’s storytelling captivated audiences and perfectly complemented the song’s themes.
The Night’s Performances
The ACM Awards are known for their live performances, and 2025 was no exception. The show featured show-stopping numbers by various artists, including a mash-up of classic hits and contemporary favorites. The night saw surprise collaborations, heartfelt tributes, and powerful showcases, further elevating the celebration of country music.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the 2025 ACM Awards, it’s clear that country music continues to evolve while holding tightly to its roots. The winners of this year’s ceremony represent a diverse mix of talents, each contributing uniquely to the genre. With artists like Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, and Lainey Wilson at the forefront, the future of country music looks incredibly promising. The ACM Awards once again served as a reminder of the powerful stories, emotions, and connections that music brings to our lives. The anticipation for next year’s awards has already begun, but for now, the winners of 2025 will bask in their well-earned glory.
At the 60th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, held on May 8, 2025, at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, Lainey Wilson emerged as the top winner for the second consecutive year, claiming Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year for "Whirlwind." (apnews.com)
Ella Langley led the night with five awards, including Single and Music Event of the Year for "You Look Like You Love Me," and New Female Artist of the Year. (apnews.com)
Chris Stapleton was honored as Male Artist of the Year, while Brooks & Dunn received Duo of the Year. (apnews.com)
The inaugural Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Alan Jackson, who also delivered a performance of "Remember When." (apnews.com)
The ceremony featured a 14-minute medley celebrating six decades of country music, with performances by Reba McEntire, Clint Black, Wynonna Judd, LeAnn Rimes, Little Big Town, and Dan + Shay. (apnews.com)
The ACM Awards streamed live on Prime Video and Twitch without requiring a membership. (apnews.com)