ACM AWARDS 2025: 60th year celebrations!

Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson Dominate ACM Awards

The 2025 Academy of Country Music Awards in Frisco, Texas, saw breakout star Ella Langley and seasoned favorite Lainey Wilson sweep the night, each walking away with armfuls of trophies. Langley claimed five wins, while Wilson earned four, including the coveted entertainer of the year honor.

Ella Langley’s Breakout Night

Few expected a newcomer to walk into the ACMs with eight nominations and leave with more than half of them, but Langley did just that. She secured wins in categories such as new female artist, single of the year, and music event of the year for her collaboration with Riley Green.

“WINNER: Ella Langley.”

Her victory in visual media of the year further underscored her rising influence, as she co-directed the award-winning video for “you look like you love me.” The string of honors solidified her arrival as one of the most promising new names in the genre.

Lainey Wilson Claims the Big Prize

Wilson entered the night as a major contender and lived up to expectations with four wins. Entertainer of the year topped her list, but she also picked up female artist of the year, album of the year for Whirlwind, and artist-songwriter of the year.

“WINNER: Lainey Wilson.”

Her achievements placed her firmly among the most decorated performers of the evening, reinforcing her continued growth as both a performer and songwriter. The ACM later announced Wilson would also be recognized at the ACM Honors in Nashville for her songwriting accomplishments.

Other Key Artist Wins

While Langley and Wilson dominated, other artists still had notable moments. Chris Stapleton added to his long list of accolades with male artist of the year, while Brooks & Dunn won duo of the year, keeping their legacy alive. Old Dominion took home group of the year, reaffirming their steady run at the top.

“WINNER: Chris Stapleton.”

Zach Top secured new male artist of the year, and The Red Clay Strays were recognized as new duo or group, signaling a new wave of talent alongside the established stars.

Song and Single Highlights

Cody Johnson’s “Dirt Cheap” was named song of the year, recognizing its songwriting strength, while Langley and Green’s “you look like you love me” captured single of the year. The contrast between Johnson’s traditional storytelling and Langley’s fresh collaboration reflected the genre’s broad reach.

“WINNER: Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson.”

The single and video awards emphasized the role of collaborations and visuals in amplifying songs’ impact, especially for artists breaking into the mainstream.

Behind-the-Scenes Honors

The July announcement of industry and studio recording awards added another layer to the ACMs. These included Dave Cobb as producer of the year, Jenee Fleenor as specialty instrument player of the year, and Brent Mason as electric guitar player of the year. Venue awards highlighted spots like The Caverns in Tennessee and Chicago’s Joe’s on Weed St.

• Producer of the year: Dave Cobb
• Electric guitar player of the year: Brent Mason
• Festival of the year: Windy City Smokeout – Chicago
• Arena of the year: Moody Center – Austin

“WINNER: Dave Cobb.”

These honors reminded fans that the music industry thrives not only on star power but also on the craft of musicians, producers, and venues shaping the live experience.

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Reba McEntire Leads the 60th ACM Awards Celebration

Singers. Songwriters. Musicians. Country icons. All together under one roof for 60 years. The 60th celebration of the ACM Awards is shaping up to be a magical milestone event—led by 16-time ACM Award-winner Reba McEntire.

Ella Langley Dominates the Nominations

Opry NextStage artist and first-time ACM nominee Ella Langley leads the pack with eight nominations. She’s up for New Female Artist of the Year and earned six nods for her smash hit with Riley Green, “You Look Like You Love Me.”

Cody Johnson and Morgan Wallen Close Behind

Texas native Cody Johnson, fresh off headlining C2C, has seven nominations including Song of the Year for “Dirt Cheap.” Also with seven nods is Morgan Wallen, thanks in part to his chart-topping collaboration with Post Malone, “I Had Some Help.”

Lainey Wilson Makes ACM History

Six-time nominee Lainey Wilson racks up nominations in six different categories—an ACM record—including her first nod for Artist-Songwriter of the Year. Her rise from farmer’s daughter to global star continues to impress.

Entertainer of the Year: A Fierce Competition

Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, and Kelsea Ballerini are all in the running for Entertainer of the Year. A win for Combs would make him eligible for the prestigious Triple Crown Award.

Chris Stapleton’s Tenth Male Artist of the Year Nod

Ten years strong—Chris Stapleton earns another nomination for Male Artist of the Year. Known for his raw, soulful sound and unforgettable Super Bowl performance, he’s a perennial fan favorite.

Groups and Duos: Old Dominion, Little Big Town & More

Old Dominion looks to continue their seven-year winning streak for Group of the Year, while Little Big Town and Rascal Flatts remain strong contenders. For Duo of the Year, Brothers Osborne earn their 11th nomination.

Female Artist of the Year: Kelsea vs. Kacey vs. Lainey

Kelsea Ballerini, Kacey Musgraves, and Lainey Wilson are all vying for Female Artist of the Year. Musgraves and Wilson also face off in the Song of the Year category with “The Architect” and “4x4xU,” respectively.

First-Time Nominees: Shaboozey, Dasha & More

Breakout star Shaboozey grabs his first nominations including New Male Artist and Single of the Year for the viral hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” He’s joined by newcomers Zach Top, Tucker Wetmore, and Dasha.

• Check out our interview with Shaboozey from C2C 2025

Live from Frisco, Texas: Streaming on Prime Video

The ACM Awards 2025 take place May 8 in Frisco, Texas, streaming exclusively on Prime Video. Expect powerhouse performances from Eric Church, Blake Shelton, Lainey Wilson, and more to be announced soon.

Meta Description: Explore the nominees, highlights, and big performances at the ACM Awards 2025—Reba McEntire hosts country music’s biggest night live from Texas.