Lainey Wilson Steals the Show!

At the dazzling 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, Lainey Wilson emerged as a true star, taking home a staggering four awards, including the prestigious Entertainer of the Year! This marks her second consecutive win for this top honor, and she also claimed Album of the Year for her sensational release, "Whirlwind," Female Vocalist of the Year, and Artist-Songwriter of the Year.

Ella Langley: Newcomer with a Winning Streak

Rising star Ella Langley, the evening’s most-nominated artist with eight nods, shone brightly, walking away with five awards. Her wins included Best New Female Artist and Single of the Year for her hit "You Look Like You Love Me," a collaboration with Riley Green. This song was not just a breakthrough for Langley; it also took home accolades for Visual Media of the Year and Music Event of the Year!

Highlights from the Night

As the crowd buzzed with excitement, Wilson expressed her delight upon winning Female Vocalist of the Year, stating, "The girls are kickin’ down some barn doors and I like it!" Accepting the Entertainer of the Year award, she opened up about her struggles with impostor syndrome, encouraging others to embrace their own successes with an open heart.

Meanwhile, Langley shared heartfelt remarks, mentioning her gratitude for traditional country music icons and emphasizing the importance of writing from the heart. In her own amusing and candid moments at the podium, she shared how overwhelmed she felt during her initial acceptance speech.

A Night of Surprises and Celebrations

Cody Johnson kicked off the night by winning Song of the Year for "Dirt Cheap," a collaborative effort with Josh Phillips—an incredible feat in an industry often dominated by collective writing.

Notable wins included Chris Stapleton as Male Vocalist of the Year, Old Dominion securing Group of the Year for an eighth consecutive year, and veterans Brooks & Dunn winning Duo of the Year.

Tributes and Star-Studded Performances

The show was a spectacular homage to country music, featuring a show-opening medley of classics, hosted by the iconic Reba McEntire and joined by other country luminaries. A special tribute to Keith Urban highlighted his achievements, while Alan Jackson received heartfelt applause in a tribute coinciding with the introduction of a new award named in his honor.

Fans were treated to stellar performances, including a highly anticipated trio performance by McEntire, Wilson, and Miranda Lambert—a knockout debut for their single "Trailblazer," which celebrates the rich legacy and future of country music.

What’s Next for Country Music?

The ACMs 2025 streamed live to over 240 countries, showcasing the growth and global appeal of country music. With emerging artists like Wilson and Langley taking center stage, the future looks bright for the genre.

Complete List of Winners