ACM Awards 2025: Performers, Historic Moments, and What to Expect
The ACM Awards 2025 are set to be one of the biggest events in country music history. Celebrating their 60th anniversary, the Academy of Country Music (ACM) brings together legends, rising stars, and unforgettable performances. Whether you're a long-time country fan or just catching the excitement, this year’s show promises to deliver memorable moments and significant milestones.
60 Years of Country Music Excellence
This year marks a historic anniversary for the ACM Awards. Since its founding in 1966, the show has honored the best in country music, becoming one of the genre’s most anticipated nights. The 2025 ceremony reflects on six decades of songs, stories, and stars. Hosted by Reba McEntire—her 18th time as host—the event not only celebrates established artists but highlights the evolving face of country music.
The milestone was commemorated with a 12-minute opening medley, spotlighting ACM Award-winning Songs of the Year across six decades. Stage legends like Clint Black, Dan + Shay, Wynonna Judd, Reba McEntire, LeAnn Rimes, and Sugarland helped kick off the show in style. You can read more about these historic collaborations and medleys in Billboard's 2025 ACM Awards show preview.
Star-Studded Performances and Collaborations
The 2025 ACM Awards lineup is stacked with both iconic names and fresh faces. At least ten major acts were confirmed, including Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Chris Stapleton, Cody Johnson, Kelsea Ballerini, LeAnn Rimes, Miranda Lambert, Rascal Flatts, and Wynonna Judd. View the full list of performers and what to expect on Yahoo Entertainment.
Fans were also treated to special collaborative performances. Notable pairings included Jelly Roll & Shaboozey, Backstreet Boys & Rascal Flatts, and Brooks & Dunn with Cody Johnson. These duos showcased the energy and diversity that define country music in 2025. In addition, outdoor pre-show concerts added more excitement, with emerging artists performing free shows in Frisco, Texas.
Historic Moments & New Directions
The ACM Awards 2025 didn’t just celebrate the past; it pointed toward the future. The show served as a platform for both well-known artists and up-and-coming talents. This milestone year also recognized the genre’s adaptability and its growing influence on mainstream culture. As noted by Madison's Country Q106, the awards reflected a blending of classic country with innovative sounds.
Additionally, the ACM Awards spotlighted recent inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and paid tribute to country music’s legacy. Inductions, emotional performances, and chart-topping artists all underscored the genre’s enduring popularity.
How to Watch and Join the Celebration
The 60th ACM Awards streamed worldwide on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch, live from the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. The show, presented by Carnival Cruise Line, expanded to a two-and-a-half-hour spectacle, ensuring fans had more time to experience every highlight.
Conclusion
The ACM Awards 2025 set a new standard for country music celebrations. With historic performances, remarkable collaborations, and a nod to both tradition and change, this year’s show will be remembered for years to come. Stay tuned for highlights, exclusive interviews, and continued coverage as the ACM Awards continue to shape the story of country music.