ACM Awards 2025: Your Guide to Country Music's Biggest Night
Get ready to celebrate country music! The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM Awards) are set to stream live on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas. Here's everything you need to know about how to watch, who's performing, and who's nominated for the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award.
How to Watch the 2025 ACM Awards
The 60th ACM Awards will be available exclusively on Prime Video. The show starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The best part? You don't even need a Prime subscription to watch live! According to the Academy's website, the show will be free for everyone, making it a true "Party of the Year."
If you're looking to enjoy Prime Video's other offerings, you can still grab a free 30-day trial.
Who's Hosting?
The iconic Reba McEntire will be hosting the ACM Awards for the 18th time, a record that solidifies her legendary status in country music. Get ready for a night filled with her signature wit and charm.
Reba McEntire, hosting the 2025 ACM Awards.
Performers Lineup
The 60th ACM Awards promises a star-studded lineup of performers, including:
- Clint Black
- Dan + Shay
- Wynonna Judd
- Reba McEntire
- LeAnn Rimes
- Sugarland
Expect some exciting duets as well:
- Rascal Flatts with the Backstreet Boys
- Jelly Roll and Shaboozey
- Cody Johnson with Brooks & Dunn
The night will also feature performances from:
- Megan Moroney
- Alan Jackson
- Chris Stapleton
- Blake Shelton
- Kelsea Ballerini
- Lainey Wilson
- Miranda Lambert
- Ella Langley
- Zach Top
Keith Urban will be honored with the Triple Crown Award, recognizing his wins for New Artist, Male Vocalist, and Entertainer of the Year throughout his career. Check out a clip of Keith Urban accepting the Triple Crown Award.
Entertainer of the Year Nominees
The coveted Entertainer of the Year award has some stiff competition this year. Here's a look at the nominees:
Kelsea Ballerini
At 31, Kelsea stands out with her confessional lyrics and relatable themes. She's also known for her work with Cover Girl and as a coach on The Voice. Her recent album, Patterns, was released in 2024.
Luke Combs
Luke, 35, has achieved crossover success with his rendition of Tracy Chapman’s "Fast Car." His music resonates deeply, particularly when he sings about family and life lessons from his North Carolina upbringing.
Cody Johnson
Hailing from Texas, Cody, 37, brings the spirit of his rodeo background and cowboy lifestyle to his music. His hits include "Til You Can’t" and "Dirt Cheap."
Jelly Roll
Jason DeFord, known as Jelly Roll, is a 40-year-old Nashville native whose stories of redemption have struck a chord with audiences. His powerful performances blend soulful singing with motivational speaking.
Chris Stapleton
Chris, 47, captivates audiences with his exceptional voice and talented band, including his wife Morgane. His latest album, Higher, showcases a mix of compelling tunes.
Morgan Wallen
Morgan, 31, from Tennessee, focuses on his music despite past controversies. His songs often reflect the everyday struggles of ordinary people, appealing to a broad audience. He has also collaborated with pop artists like Post Malone.
Lainey Wilson (Defending Champ)
Lainey, 32, from Louisiana, spent years honing her craft in Nashville before her unique blend of lyrical themes and country spirit gained widespread recognition. Last year, she took home the Entertainer of the Year award, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Additional Awards and Recognition
Beyond the ACM Awards, other awards ceremonies are also generating buzz:
- BET Awards: Kendrick Lamar leads the 2025 BET Awards nominees with 10 nods, highlighting his continued influence in hip-hop.
- Tony Awards: The Muny in St. Louis has won the 2025 Tony Award for Best Regional Theatre, celebrating its significant contributions to the world of theater.
- Ipsies Beauty Awards: The Ipsies Beauty Awards 2025 winners have been announced, showcasing top products in the beauty industry.
- Top Gear Electric Awards: The Polestar 3 was named the Best EV SUV at Top Gear's Electric Awards 2025, praised for its technology and design.
- David di Donatello Awards: Kylie Jenner attended the 70th David di Donatello Awards, showcasing high fashion at the Italian film awards. Monica Bellucci also made an appearance at the event.
- Brand Customer Loyalty Awards: UNIS won the 'Most Influential Female Idol (Hot Trend) Award' at the 2025 Brand Customer Loyalty Awards, recognizing their impact and popularity.
Kylie Jenner at the 70th David di Donatello Awards.
True Crime Awards 2025
The UK True Crime Awards 2025 are also on the horizon, celebrating content creators in the true crime genre. Viewers can nominate their favorite channels and content for recognition.
Stay Tuned
As May 8, 2025 approaches, keep an eye out for more updates and exclusive content related to the 60th ACM Awards! It's set to be an unforgettable night for country music.