Before The Awards, Before The Headlines: Three ACM Interviews Worth Rewatching
One of the best things about ACM week is catching artists right before everything shifts.
They’re in the middle of rehearsals, bouncing between interviews and figuring out what they’re wearing to the biggest night in country music, but there’s still a little breathing room. Enough time for a proper conversation before the red carpet, the trophies and the inevitable internet debates about who should have won what.
Looking back at our coverage from last year’s Academy of Country Music Awards, it’s striking just how much can change in twelve months.
At the time, Tucker Wetmore was in the middle of a breakout run, Zach Top was quickly becoming the standard-bearer for traditional country’s resurgence, and Ella Langley was building the kind of momentum that’s impossible to fake.
Now, all three feel like some of the most exciting names in the genre.
Tucker Wetmore Was Right In The Middle Of His Breakout Moment
Tucker brought exactly the kind of energy you’d expect – laid-back, funny and clearly enjoying the ride.
Watching this one back now, you can see an artist who knew things were moving quickly but still seemed to be taking it all in stride.
Zach Top Was Bringing Traditional Country Back To The Conversation
Zach’s throwback sound has struck a real chord with fans, and our ACM conversation with him captured that easygoing personality that’s helped make him one of the genre’s most exciting new artists.
Looking back now, it feels like an early snapshot of an artist who was about to have a massive year.
Ella Langley Was Already Building Momentum
A lot has happened for Ella over the last year, but even then it felt obvious she was on the verge of something big.
Her mix of confidence, sharp songwriting and unmistakable Alabama attitude has made her one of the most compelling voices in country right now.
More To Come From This Year’s ACM Awards
With the ACM Awards heading back to Las Vegas, we’ll be bringing you interviews, reactions and behind-the-scenes coverage all week long across CountryLine.
In the meantime, these conversations are well worth revisiting – especially now that all three artists are having such huge moments.