The 60th annual Academy of Country Music Awards was a night filled with celebration, emotional performances, and prestigious honors. Lainey Wilson once again stole the spotlight by winning entertainer of the year for the second year in a row. She also received awards for female artist and album of the year, solidifying her status as a leading figure in country music. Wilson expressed her gratitude to her fans, mentioning in her speech that she ‘really does have the best fans in the world’ and reflecting on her journey with humility and gratitude.

The awards ceremony in Frisco, Texas, was a tribute to the genre’s rich history, featuring a medley of six decades of country classics performed by legendary artists, including Reba McEntire, Clint Black, Wynonna Judd, LeAnn Rimes, Little Big Town, and Dan + Shay. These performances highlighted the roots of country music and its evolution over time.

A special highlight was Alan Jackson receiving the inaugural ACM Lifetime Achievement Award, now named in his honor. His performance of “Remember When” was a heartfelt tribute to his enduring influence on the genre. Jackson’s acceptance speech was marked by sincerity as he reminisced about his humble beginnings and paid tribute to his wife Denise, his lifelong partner.

The night also featured dynamic performances from various artists, including Miranda Lambert, Eric Church, Kelsea Ballerini, Chris Stapleton, Jelly Roll, and the Backstreet Boys, exemplifying the diversity and vibrancy of country music today. The show was streamed live on Prime Video and Twitch, making it accessible to a global audience.

Awards for male artist of the year went to Stapleton, and the duo of the year was awarded to Brooks & Dunn. The event not only celebrated current stars but also paid homage to legends and pioneers who shaped the genre.

Overall, the 2025 ACM Awards demonstrated that the genre continues to thrive, balancing tradition and innovation. It also reaffirmed the importance of preserving country music’s authentic roots while embracing new talents and sounds. As the night concluded, it was clear that country music’s legacy is in good hands, with stories of history and hopes for the future intertwining seamlessly.