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ACM Awards 2025 Nominations, Winners, and How to Watch


A man digging through crates of vinyls and CDs at a record fair.
Table of Contents
Microphone on black stage with curtain and smoke.

The Big Night Is Here!

The 60th ACM Awards came and went, and fans were thrilled. On May 8, 2025, all eyes turned to Frisco, Texas, for a night filled with joy, music, and unforgettable memories.

It was a big moment, celebrating 60 years of country music with countless stars and a few surprise appearances. Hearts were full, and excitement filled the air; it truly became a night people would never forget.

Reba McEntire at an event.

Reba McEntire Returns as Host

Reba McEntire returned to host the 60th ACM Awards. With 16 ACM wins under her belt, she wasn’t just a country star; she was a true legend, bringing heart, humor, and charm to the stage.

Her powerful voice and playful spirit lit up the room once again. The night felt even more magical with Reba at the helm.

A video streaming service was photographed for stock.

Where to Watch the ACMs

The 60th ACM Awards streamed live at 8 p.m. ET. The show was available on two major platforms: Prime Video and Amazon Music’s Live Twitch channel.

Fans tuned in with ease, whether they were at home or on the go. Thanks to these streaming options, viewers didn’t miss a moment of the star-studded excitement.

Morgan Wallen poses in the press room at the 2022 iHeartRadio Music Festival.

The Nomination Leaderboard

Ella Langley led the 2025 ACM Awards with 8 nominations, and fans were thrilled for her. Right behind her were Morgan Wallen, Cody Johnson, and Lainey Wilson, each of whom earned 7 nominations.

These artists had poured in a tremendous amount of work and were finally getting the recognition they deserved. The competition was fierce and full of surprises.

Silhouette woman singer in studio.

Female Artist of the Year: Who’s Won?

The Female Artist of the Year category at the 2025 ACM Awards was filled with standout talent. Kelsea Ballerini impressed with her catchy country-pop hits.

Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, and Kacey Musgraves also earned praise for their unique styles. But it was Lainey Wilson who won, marking a huge moment in her career.

A partial view of a musician playing guitar

New Male Artist Nominees

The 2025 ACM Awards showcased some amazing new male talent. Gavin Adcock impressed with his authentic country sound and heartfelt stories.

Shaboozey stood out with his country and hip-hop blend, especially on “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” But it was Zach Top who took home the win, celebrating his unique style and rising success in country music.

Luke Combs poses in the Press Room

Big Category: Entertainer of the Year

The 2025 ACM Awards featured incredible artists competing for Entertainer of the Year, making the race exciting to follow. Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson were all in the running.

Each delivered big hits and unforgettable performances. In the end, Lainey Wilson claimed the top honor.

A man digging through crates of vinyls and CDs at a record fair.

Album of the Year

The 2025 ACM Awards had amazing albums competing for Album of the Year. Megan Moroney’s Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine) shared personal and honest stories.

Jelly Roll and Zach Top also stood out with powerful, genre-blending projects. But it was Lainey Wilson’s Whirlwind that took the win, highlighting her unique voice and heartfelt storytelling.

Shaboozey at an event.

Single of the Year

The 2025 ACM Awards featured great songs competing for Single of the Year. Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” was a fun, upbeat track.

Cody Johnson’s “Dirt Cheap” celebrated life’s simple joys, while Chris Stapleton’s “White Horse” touched hearts deeply. In the end, Ella Langley and Riley Green’s “You Look Like You Love Me” won the award.

Blake Shelton at People Choice Awards.

Live Performers Who Conquered

Blake Shelton, Lainey Wilson, and Eric Church performed at the 2025 ACM Awards. Blake Shelton’s deep voice and hit songs made his set unforgettable.

Lainey Wilson brought her powerful voice and unique country style to the stage. Eric Church lit up the night with his energy and authentic country sound.

Silhouette of a singer singing on stage with dark background.

Male Artist of the Year Showdown

The Male Artist of the Year award was filled with big stars. Luke Combs stood out with his powerful voice and hit songs.

Cody Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Morgan Wallen also had remarkable years. But it was Chris Stapleton who took home the win, impressing fans with his unique talent and impact.

silhouette of a singing woman against blue nightclub background

New Female Artist Spotlight

The New Female Artist of the Year category was full of fresh talent. Kassi Ashton, Ashley Cooke, Dasha, Ella Langley, and Jessie Murph all made waves in country music.

Each brought her unique voice and style to the stage. In the end, Ella Langley won, marking a major step in her career.

brooks and dunn

Group & Duo of the Year Contenders

The Group and Duo of the Year categories were packed with strong talent. Brooks & Dunn led the Duo of the Year race with big hits and loyal fans.

Old Dominion shone in the Group of the Year category, bringing their signature sound. Each act made the competition tough and unforgettable.

Songwriting with acoustic guitar.

Song of the Year – Lyrical Masterpieces

The Song of the Year award honored the best lyrics in country music. Lainey Wilson’s “4x4xU” and Kacey Musgraves’ “The Architect” showcased the depth of the genre.

Post Malone, with Morgan Wallen and Ella Langley, with Riley Green also shared powerful stories. In the end, Cody Johnson’s “Dirt Cheap” took home the win.

Question mark heap on table.

Who’s Missing? The Big Snubs

Fans were shocked when Miranda Lambert didn’t receive a single ACM nomination that year, despite having won 37 times before. As one of country music’s biggest names, her absence saddened many fans.

Beyoncé, who had won Best Country Album at the 2025 Grammys, was also missing from the nominations. Even after her country album, Cowboy Carter, earned praise from critics and fans alike.

set of tickets

Where to Buy Tickets

Tickets for the 2025 ACM Awards became available online. Fans had the option to choose seats in the upper levels for a more affordable price.

For those wanting to be closer to the action, mosh pit passes were also offered. With Reba McEntire returning as host, the 60th ACM Awards promised even more excitement.

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