The 2025 ACM Awards: Celebrating Country Music’s Brightest Stars
The 2025 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards returned with a night of thrilling performances, memorable moments, and well-deserved accolades. The ceremony, held at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, brought together country music’s elite, showcasing the depth and diversity within the genre. Stars such as Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley, Chris Stapleton, and Brooks & Dunn captured major awards, reinforcing their significant impact on country music.
Performances of the Night
The 2025 ACM Awards featured a variety of unforgettable performances from some of country music’s brightest stars. Highlights included electrifying sets by Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, Ella Langley with Riley Green, and Jelly Roll. Kelsea Ballerini and Morgan Wallen also captivated audiences with emotional renditions of their hits, while Brooks & Dunn brought a nostalgic touch with their classic tunes. These performances further enhanced the celebratory atmosphere of the event, reminding audiences why country music continues to resonate so deeply.
Spotlight on Lainey Wilson
Lainey Wilson solidified her status as one of country music’s leading talents, securing the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award for the second consecutive year. Wilson’s energetic performances and heartfelt songwriting resonated deeply with fans and industry peers alike, cementing her influence and popularity within the genre.
The nominees for Entertainer of the Year included:
- Lainey Wilson (winner)
- Chris Stapleton
- Cody Johnson
- Jelly Roll
- Kelsea Ballerini
- Luke Combs
- Morgan Wallen
Moreover, Wilson’s critically acclaimed album, “Whirlwind,” clinched the coveted Album of the Year award. The album, praised for its authentic storytelling and rich musicality, stood out among strong contenders including Megan Moroney’s “Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine),” Jelly Roll’s “Beautifully Broken,” Zach Top’s “Cold Beer and Country Music,” and Post Malone’s “F-1 Trillion.”
Ella Langley’s Breakout Night
Ella Langley had a phenomenal night, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. With eight nominations, Langley walked away victorious as the New Female Artist of the Year, a testament to her impressive rise in the country music scene. Langley’s collaboration with Riley Green, “You Look Like You Love Me,” also secured victories in multiple categories, including Music Event of the Year, Single of the Year, and Visual Media of the Year, highlighting the duo’s remarkable chemistry and musical synergy.
Nominees for New Female Artist of the Year included:
- Ella Langley (winner)
- Ashley Cooke
- Dasha
- Jessie Murph
- Kassi Ashton
Chris Stapleton’s Continued Dominance
Chris Stapleton continued his dominance within country music by claiming the Male Artist of the Year award. Known for his powerful voice and raw emotional depth, Stapleton’s artistry remained unmatched, outshining fellow nominees Cody Johnson, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, and Jelly Roll. His single “White Horse” received notable acclaim, though it was his presence and influence in the industry that continued to set him apart.
Nominees for Male Artist of the Year included:
- Chris Stapleton (winner)
- Cody Johnson
- Luke Combs
- Morgan Wallen
- Jelly Roll
Duo & Group Highlights
The legendary duo Brooks & Dunn furthered their impressive legacy by earning Duo of the Year. Their timeless appeal and energetic performances allowed them to edge out competitors Brothers Osborne, Dan + Shay, Muscadine Bloodline, and The War and Treaty. Brooks & Dunn’s victory was a nostalgic reminder of their enduring contribution to country music.
Nominees for Duo of the Year included:
- Brooks & Dunn (winner)
- Brothers Osborne
- Dan + Shay
- Muscadine Bloodline
- The War and Treaty
In the group category, Old Dominion took home Group of the Year, reflecting their consistent ability to produce chart-topping hits and connect with audiences nationwide. Their blend of lyrical depth and catchy melodies stood out, surpassing notable groups including Flatland Cavalry, Little Big Town, Rascal Flatts, and The Red Clay Strays.
Nominees for Group of the Year included:
- Old Dominion (winner)
- Flatland Cavalry
- Little Big Town
- Rascal Flatts
- The Red Clay Strays
Fresh Talent Takes Center Stage
Emerging artists also had their moment to shine, with Zach Top receiving recognition as the New Male Artist of the Year. Top’s authentic country sound and compelling performances resonated strongly, distinguishing him from fellow nominees Bailey Zimmerman, Gavin Adcock, Shaboozey, and Tucker Wetmore.
Nominees for New Male Artist of the Year included:
- Zach Top (winner)
- Bailey Zimmerman
- Gavin Adcock
- Shaboozey
- Tucker Wetmore
The Red Clay Strays were honored as the New Duo or Group of the Year, marking their arrival as a significant force in the genre. Their distinctive blend of classic and contemporary country sounds earned them recognition over Restless Road and Treaty Oak Revival.
Nominees for New Duo or Group of the Year included:
- The Red Clay Strays (winner)
- Restless Road
- Treaty Oak Revival
Celebrating Songwriting Excellence
Songwriting, a cornerstone of country music, was prominently celebrated. Lainey Wilson’s dual recognition as Artist-Songwriter of the Year underscored her extraordinary talents both as a performer and a songwriter. Wilson’s lyrics captured authenticity and relatability, resonating deeply with listeners.
Jessie Jo Dillon was celebrated as Songwriter of the Year, further spotlighting the crucial role songwriters play in crafting the narratives that define country music. Dillon’s contribution to various chart-topping hits affirmed her status as an essential voice in the songwriting community, alongside peers such as Ashley Gorley, Chase McGill, Jessi Alexander, and Josh Osborne.
Controversial Outcomes: Stars Fans Felt Were Robbed
Every award ceremony brings a share of controversy and debate, and the 2025 ACM Awards were no exception. Fans expressed disappointment notably over Kelsea Ballerini missing out on major awards, especially Entertainer of the Year. Despite her significant contributions, successful year, tour, and a passionate fanbase, Ballerini left the ceremony without an award, sparking vigorous online discussions. Fans and critics alike took to social media, expressing the belief that Ballerini’s achievements warranted recognition, citing her compelling stage presence, hit songs, and powerful collaborations.
Reflecting on the Night’s Significance
The 2025 ACM Awards highlighted the remarkable talent within the country music industry, celebrating both established stars and emerging voices. The event underscored the genre’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots, bridging tradition and innovation seamlessly.
As attendees and viewers alike celebrated this vibrant showcase of talent, the event served as a powerful reminder of country music’s enduring appeal and its capacity to inspire and entertain across generations. The night’s big winners, Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley, Chris Stapleton, Brooks & Dunn, and others, left an indelible mark, promising continued creativity and passion in the
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2025 ACM Awards
Who won Entertainer of the Year?
Lainey Wilson won Entertainer of the Year for the second year in a row.
Who won the most awards at the 2025 ACM Awards?
Ella Langley won multiple awards, including New Female Artist of the Year and Single of the Year.
Where was the 2025 ACM Awards ceremony held?
The ceremony took place at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.
Why did fans believe Kelsea Ballerini was overlooked?
Fans felt Kelsea Ballerini was overlooked due to her significant achievements and strong fan following but leaving the ceremony without an award, especially missing out on Entertainer of the Year.
Who won Album of the Year?
Lainey Wilson won Album of the Year with her album, “Whirlwind.”
Who took home the Male Artist of the Year award?
Chris Stapleton was awarded Male Artist of the Year.
Which duo won Duo of the Year? Brooks & Dunn won Duo of the Year.
Who was recognized as the Group of the Year? Old Dominion secured the award for Group of the Year.
Who received New Male Artist of the Year? Zach Top won New Male Artist of the Year.
