ACM Awards 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Country Music's Biggest Night
Get ready for a night of unforgettable performances and heartfelt celebrations as the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM Awards) takes center stage! This year's ceremony promises to be extra special, packed with stellar performances, surprising duets, and the crowning of country music's elite. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy the show, from how to watch to who's performing and who's up for the coveted Entertainer of the Year award.
How to Watch the 2025 ACM Awards
Mark your calendars! The 60th ACM Awards will stream live exclusively on Prime Video from the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas, on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. And here's the best part: you don't even need a Prime subscription to watch!
According to the Academy's official website, the show will be free to stream for everyone, ensuring that all country music fans can join the "Party of the Year."
Who's Hosting?
The iconic Reba McEntire will grace the stage as host for an incredible 18th time, a record unmatched by any other MC in ACM Awards history. Her wit, charm, and deep connection to country music make her the perfect guide for this special anniversary celebration.
Performances to Expect
Prepare for a night of show-stopping performances from a dazzling lineup of country music stars:
- Anniversary Kickoff: The 60th ACMs will feature a grand anniversary kickoff with performances by Clint Black, Dan + Shay, Wynonna Judd, Reba McEntire, LeAnn Rimes, and Sugarland.
- Exciting Duets: Keep an eye out for unexpected pairings, including Rascal Flatts with the Backstreet Boys, Jelly Roll with Shaboozey, and Cody Johnson with Brooks & Dunn.
- Solo Performances: The evening will also showcase Megan Moroney, Alan Jackson, Chris Stapleton, Blake Shelton, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, and Zach Top.
- Triple Crown Award: Superstar 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 illustrious career.
Entertainer of the Year Nominees
The most prestigious award of the night, Entertainer of the Year, recognizes an artist's overall contribution to country music, including album sales, touring success, and impact on the genre. Here are the talented nominees vying for the title:
- Kelsea Ballerini: Known for her confessional lyrics and glamorous style, Kelsea has made a name for herself as a successful recording artist and coach on The Voice.
- Luke Combs: With his relatable songs about family and everyday life, Luke has captured the hearts of country fans and achieved crossover success with his rendition of "Fast Car."
- Cody Johnson: This Texan brings the energy and emotion of the cowboy lifestyle to his music, connecting with audiences through his authentic storytelling.
- Jelly Roll: Overcoming past struggles, Jelly Roll has become an inspiration to many with his powerful performances and stories of redemption.
- Chris Stapleton: A master of his craft, Chris captivates audiences with his soulful voice and unforgettable live shows.
- Morgan Wallen: Despite facing controversies, Morgan continues to resonate with fans through his honest and relatable music, pushing the boundaries of country with pop and hip-hop influences.
- Lainey Wilson (Defending Champ): A true force in country music, Lainey's unique style and powerful voice have made her a fan favorite, earning her the Entertainer of the Year title last year.
Red Carpet Fashion
No awards show is complete without a red carpet, and the ACM Awards are no exception! Expect to see stunning looks from your favorite stars. For example, Nicole Kidman, supporting her husband Keith Urban, wowed in Monse fall 2025 RTW. And Kylie Jenner stunned at the 70th David di Donatello Awards in Schiaparelli FW RTW 2025, showcasing the intersection of high fashion and awards season glamour.
According to a Reddit post, Keith Urban thanked Nicole Kidman while accepting the Triple Crown Award. He also acknowledged their daughters, Sunday and Faith. You can watch Keith Urban's Acceptance Speech on Youtube.
Other Awards to Watch
The ACM Awards aren't just about the Entertainer of the Year. Keep an eye on other categories, including:
- Album of the Year: Recognizing the best full-length albums in country music.
- Single of the Year: Celebrating the most impactful and popular singles.
- Song of the Year: Honoring the songwriters behind the year's best compositions.
- Male and Female Artist of the Year: Recognizing the top male and female vocalists in the genre.
- New Artist of the Year: Spotlighting the brightest rising stars in country music.
Other Awards Ceremonies to Watch
While the ACM Awards celebrate country music, other awards ceremonies spotlight talent across various genres and industries:
- BET Awards 2025: Celebrating Black excellence in music, television, film, and sports.
- Tony Awards 2025: Honoring the best of Broadway theatre.
- Music Week Awards 2025: Recognizing the achievements of individuals and companies in the music industry.
- Toronto Theatre Critics’ Awards 2025: Celebrating the best in Toronto theatre.
- UK True Crime Awards 2025: Recognizing excellence in true crime television content.
- Top Gear's Electric Awards 2025: Best EV SUV Polestar 3
The Ipsies Beauty Awards 2025
For beauty enthusiasts, the Ipsies Beauty Awards celebrate the best in beauty products. These awards highlight top-rated skincare, makeup, and haircare items, making it a must-watch for anyone looking to discover new favorites. The awards spotlight a range of products, from cult classics to innovative newcomers, offering a comprehensive guide to the best in beauty.
Get Ready to Celebrate
With a star-studded lineup, unforgettable performances, and the crowning of country music's best, the 2025 ACM Awards promise to be a night to remember. So, grab your boots, tune in on May 8, 2025, and get ready to celebrate the best in country music!
Whether you're tuning in to see who wins Entertainer of the Year, marvel at the red carpet fashion, or enjoy the incredible musical performances, the ACM Awards are a highlight of the awards season.