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ACM Entertainer of Year Full List Since 1987


Lainey Wilson arrives at the 2024 Billboard Women in Music.
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Silhouette of man standing with trophy on black with smoke.

The ACM Award

The ACM Entertainer of the Year award is one of the highest honors in country music. It celebrates the most influential stars who have captured the hearts of fans with their music and performances.

Every year, country music’s top artists compete for this title. It’s a prestigious award that recognizes not only talent but also the artist’s impact on the industry.

Garth Brooks

Garth Brooks (1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1997, and 1998)

Garth Brooks holds the record for the most ACM Entertainer of the Year wins. His powerful voice and groundbreaking performances in the 90s helped redefine country music and brought a new audience to the genre.

He won the award six times. His influence is undeniable, making him one of country music’s greatest legends.

George Strait at ACM Awards.

George Strait (1990, 2014)

Known as the “King of Country,” George Strait is another giant in the genre. He took home the ACM Entertainer of the Year award in 1990 and again in 2014, showcasing his lasting impact over decades.

With his smooth voice and classic hits, Strait has become an icon. His recognition in both the late ’80s and 2010s proves his timeless popularity.

Brooks and Dunn at the 45th Academy of Country Music Awards Press Room.

Brooks & Dunn (1996- 1997, 2002)

Brooks & Dunn, the country duo, won Entertainer of the Year three times. Their incredible stage presence and catchy hits like “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” made them fan favorites throughout the 90s.

Their success wasn’t just in their music, but also in their chemistry as a duo. Their multiple wins show their massive influence on the country music scene.

Kenny Chesney at an event.

Kenny Chesney (2005-2008)

Kenny Chesney’s ability to connect with fans through his party anthems and heartfelt ballads earned him four Entertainer of the Year awards from 2005 to 2008. His laid-back style became the soundtrack to summer.

Chesney’s ability to sell out arenas year after year showed the depth of his popularity. His dynamic performances are a key reason for his success at the ACMs.

Carrie Underwood at an event.

Carrie Underwood (2009, 2010, 2020)

Carrie Underwood, a powerhouse vocalist, won Entertainer of the Year three times. Her wins in 2009, 2010, and 2020 reflect her ongoing popularity and influence in country music, years after her “American Idol” victory.

She’s known for her powerful ballads and energetic live shows. Carrie’s talent and dedication to her craft have solidified her place as a country music superstar.

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift (2011, 2012)

Before transitioning to pop, Taylor Swift dominated country music with her heartfelt songs and relatable lyrics. She won Entertainer of the Year twice, in 2011 and 2012, for her strong presence in the country scene.

Swift’s ability to blend country and pop elements made her stand out. Her charm and storytelling abilities quickly earned her recognition as a major country artist.

Luke Bryan attends the 2019 CMT Music Awards.

Luke Bryan (2013, 2015, 2021)

Luke Bryan’s energetic performances and catchy hits earned him the ACM Entertainer of the Year award three times. His wins in 2013, 2015, and 2021 show just how much fans adore him.

Known for his charm and lively performances, Bryan is a fan favorite at concerts. His easygoing nature and hit songs like “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)” have made him a household name.

Jason Aldean at ACM Awards.

Jason Aldean (2016-2018)

Jason Aldean’s success at the ACMs is undeniable. He won Entertainer of the Year three years in a row from 2016 to 2018. His blend of rock and country music resonated with a wide audience.

Aldean’s powerful performances and musical versatility made him a standout in the country scene. His consistent hits and chart-topping albums earned him these prestigious awards.

Keith Urban on stage for NBC Today Show Concert with Keith Urban.

Keith Urban (2019)

Keith Urban’s Entertainer of the Year win in 2019 solidified his place in country music’s elite. Known for his electrifying guitar skills and smooth vocals, Urban has long been a favorite of fans and critics alike.

His 2019 win came after years of chart-topping hits and unforgettable live shows. Urban’s style crosses genres, blending country with pop and rock influences to create a unique sound.

Miranda Lambert at ACM Awards.

Miranda Lambert (2022)

Miranda Lambert’s 2022 ACM Entertainer of the Year win recognized her exceptional career and continued dominance in country music. Her powerful voice and songwriting have made her one of the genre’s most influential artists.

She’s known for her hit songs like “The House That Built Me” and “Gunpowder & Lead.” Lambert’s win proves that her impact on country music is as strong as ever.

Chris Stapleton at ACM Awards.

Chris Stapleton (2023)

Chris Stapleton’s 2023 win was a momentous occasion for country music. Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting, Stapleton’s rise in the genre has been nothing short of spectacular.

His blend of country, rock, and blues earned him critical acclaim. The 2023 Entertainer of the Year win was a well-deserved acknowledgment of his immense talent.

Reba McEntire at ACM Awards.

Reba McEntire (1995)

Reba McEntire made history in 1995 by winning the ACM Entertainer of the Year award, solidifying her place as a country music powerhouse. Known for her distinctive voice and captivating stage presence, Reba became a trailblazer for women in country music.

Reba’s influence extends beyond music into acting, making her one of the most respected and beloved figures in country entertainment.

Hank Williams Jr. arriving a country celebrity event.

Hank Williams Jr. (1987-1989)

Hank Williams Jr. won the ACM Entertainer of the Year award three times, in 1987,1988, and 1989. Known for his rebellious style and blending of Southern rock with country, he left a lasting impact on the genre.

His bold personality and electrifying live performances made him a standout in the 80s. Williams Jr.’s two wins solidified his place in country music’s history.

Lainey Wilson arrives at the 2024 Billboard Women in Music.

Lainey Wilson (2024)

Lainey Wilson’s 2024 ACM Entertainer of the Year win marks her rapid rise in the country music scene. Known for her unique voice and Southern charm, Wilson’s victory proves that her hard work is paying off.

With her breakout hits like “Things a Man Oughta Know,” Lainey has captured the hearts of country fans across the nation. Her win is a symbol of the new generation of country stars.

Fans are excited to find out who will join Lainey Wilson in an upcoming collaboration, with rumors swirling around Lainey Wilson’s mystery duet partner and what surprises it might bring.

Lainey Wilson’s personal life is making headlines as details emerge about Lainey Wilson’s engagement at George Jones’ house, leaving fans eager to learn more about this special moment.

A man holding up a gold trophy cup.

Final Thoughts

From Garth Brooks to Lainey Wilson, the ACM Entertainer of the Year winners represent the best of country music. These artists have shaped the genre and continue to inspire new generations of fans with their music and passion.

Each winner brings something unique to the table, proving that country music’s influence is ever-evolving. The legacy of these stars will continue to define country music for years to come.

The buzz around the 2025 film season is growing, with fans eagerly awaiting the nominees for the 2025 Directors Guild Awards to see which filmmakers will be recognized for their outstanding work.

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