Alright folks, buckle up your rhinestone belts! The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards just galloped through Frisco, Texas on May 8th, and let me tell you, it was a Whirlwind – pun absolutely intended! If you’re like me, you live for the glitz, the glam, the OMG-worthy performances, and of course, who took home those shiny trophies. This year’s ACMs didn’t just deliver; they set a heck of a benchmark for the entire country music awards 2025 season, making us wonder what the CMA Awards 2025 will have to pull out of their hat later this year. So, grab your sweet tea (or something stronger, no judgment here!), and let’s dish on the biggest moments!
1. Lainey Wilson: Still Queen of Country (And Collecting Trophies Like It’s Her Job!)
Is anyone surprised? Lainey Wilson is basically country music royalty at this point, and the ACM Awards 2025 just added more jewels to her crown. For the second year running, she snagged the coveted Entertainer of the Year award. But wait, there’s more! She also took home trophies for Album of the Year (for “Whirlwind,” naturally), Female Artist of the Year, AND Artist-Songwriter of the Year. Four awards! That’s not just a good night; that’s a legendary one.
What makes Lainey so darn lovable? Maybe it’s her bell-bottom energy, her powerhouse vocals, or her incredible songwriting. Or perhaps it’s her refreshing honesty. Accepting her EOTY award, she admitted to struggling with “imposter syndrome” at times. “If something is given to you, you need to accept it with an open heart and open mind,” she shared. Girl, we feel you, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way! She also quipped, “I like to make people laugh and cry… I’m sorry, I like to make you cry.” We’ll take all the feels, Lainey!
Chart Toppers: ACM Awards 2025 Big Winners
Lainey Wilson and Ella Langley both scooped up an impressive four awards each!
2. Ella Langley: The Newcomer Who Stole the Show (And Our Hearts!)
Speaking of multiple award winners, let’s talk about Ella Langley! This newcomer wasn’t just new; she was a *force*. Leading with a whopping eight nominations, she walked away with four incredible wins, including New Female Artist of the Year. Her hit “You Look Like You Love Me” (with Riley Green) was clearly a darling of the night, bagging Single of the Year, Music Event of the Year, and Visual Media of the Year. Talk about an entrance!
Langley’s acceptance speeches were pure gold. “I’m out of breath a little, and I feel like I have been since this song came out,” she confessed. She even had a “literally blacked out” moment, forgetting what she said after one win (something about Conway Twitty, apparently!). It’s that kind of relatable charm that makes you root for someone. She also gave a shout-out to Sony Music Publishing exec Mya Hansen, who believed in “You Look Like You Love Me” when “everyone said this song was going to be the most underperforming song on the record.” Well, look who’s laughing now! And Riley Green, her duet partner, summed it up perfectly: “How cool it is that a song with talking verses won an award!” Pretty cool indeed.
3. Red Carpet Roundup: Pigs, Plunging Necklines, and Who Wore What (Best)!
You know an awards show is gonna be good when the red carpet itself is an event. And the ACM Awards 2025 red carpet? Chef’s kiss! Artists brought their A-game, blending classic Western vibes with modern, sometimes jaw-dropping, statements.
- Jessie Murph & Wilbur: Who needs a human date when you can bring a miniature pig? Jessie Murph did just that, and Wilbur, her porcine pal, was arguably the most unique accessory of the night. “I’ve always wanted a miniature pig, so what a better place to do it than Texas?” she told PEOPLE. Iconic.
- Kelsea Ballerini: She might have gone home empty-handed (more on that later, sigh), but Kelsea looked like a
total winner in a dazzling gown with an edgy black triangle bra top. Timeless and classic with a twist! - Nicole Kidman: Supporting hubby Keith Urban, Nicole was a
fashion-forward vision in a MONSE leather turtleneck and draped skirt combo, even rocking the layered skirt-over-trousers trend. And that hair transformation? Stunning. - Lainey Wilson: The Entertainer of the Year herself rocked her signature flares, paired with an ornate, black floral appliqué jacket featuring a
plunging neckline and stomach cutouts. Fearless and fabulous. - Ella Langley: Texture play was the name of her game with a vintage Dolce & Gabbana
snake print gown with black lace panels. Moody and magnificent!
From Shaboozey’s distressed leather cowboy suit to Dan + Shay’s spring-colored suits, it was a feast for the eyes. Honestly, the fashion alone could be its own awards show!
4. Reba’s Record Reign & Performances That Rocked Texas
Our queen, Reba McEntire, hosted for the 18th (!!!) time. Can you believe it? She’s a legend, an icon, and she still brings the fire every single time. Her presence alone elevates the show. Of course, she didn’t just host; she *performed*.
The night kicked off with a spectacular 12-minute medley of ACM Songs of the Year from across the decades, featuring Reba, Clint Black, Dan + Shay, LeAnn Rimes, Sugarland, and Wynonna Judd. What a way to celebrate 60 years! Later, Reba joined forces with Lainey Wilson and Miranda Lambert to debut their new trio single, “Trailblazer.” With lyrics like, “They gave me a seat at the table and I’m saving one for you,” it felt like a powerful passing-of-the-torch anthem. And yes, Reba was undoubtedly the central figure. As she should be!
Other standout performances? Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, and a tribute to Keith Urban (who received the ACM Triple Crown Award) featuring Stapleton, Megan Moroney, and Brothers Osborne that had Nicole Kidman dancing up a storm. Oh, and Alan Jackson got his own starry tribute AND an inaugural award named after him – the Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award. Goosebumps, y’all.
5. The “Did That REALLY Just Happen?” Files: Jelly, Jams, and Awkward Encounters
Every awards show has those moments that make you blink, laugh, or just go “Whaaat?” The ACMs were no exception:
- Bobby Bones’ Jelly Jar Journey: Cohost Bobby Bones decided to get Jelly Roll to sign a jar of Smuckers jam. “This is the first time I’ve ever signed a jar of jelly,” Jelly Roll admitted. Bones then gifted said autographed jelly to… Nicole Kidman. Her reaction? Seemingly delighted! Random? Yes. Entertaining? Absolutely.
- Jelly Roll’s Backstage Shenanigans: Speaking of Jelly Roll, he kept it real on X (formerly Twitter), posting, “Back here smoking a joint with Ernest in case yall dont see us on TV.” Honesty is the best policy? He and wife Bunnie Xo were also adorably fan-girling over sitting next to Alan Jackson. Celebs, they’re just like us (sometimes!).
- The Awkward Brooks & Dunn Sit-Down: When Bobby Bones tried to get Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn to stand up after their Duo of the Year win, neither budged. Bones, ever the trooper, just sat down in front of them. “Did you guys expect to win?” he asked. “We did not!” Dunn yelled back. Classic.
- Cody Johnson’s Big News: On a sweeter note, Cody Johnson and his wife Brandi used the red carpet to announce they’re expecting their third child – a boy! How lovely is that?
6. Old Guard & New Blood: Stapleton, Old Dominion, and the Rising Stars
While Lainey and Ella were the night’s big multi-award winners, other familiar faces and exciting new talents also got their due. Chris Stapleton, cool as ever, reprised his customary win as Male Artist of the Year. Is there anything that man can’t sing soulfully? Old Dominion continued their absolute reign, winning Group of the Year for an astounding eighth year in a row. That’s not just a streak; it’s a dynasty!
The legendary Brooks & Dunn returned to the winner’s circle as Duo of the Year, proving that true talent never fades. And on the new artist front, alongside Ella Langley, Zach Top was pre-announced as New Male Artist of the Year, and The Red Clay Strays picked up Best New Duo or Group. It’s this blend of honoring the greats and celebrating the future that keeps country music so vibrant. What a great time to be a fan, especially looking forward to the full country music awards 2025 season!
Quick Hits: Key ACM Awards 2025 Winners
| Category | Winner(s) |
|---|---|
| Entertainer of the Year | Lainey Wilson |
| Female Artist of the Year | Lainey Wilson |
| Male Artist of the Year | Chris Stapleton |
| Album of the Year | Whirlwind – Lainey Wilson (Producer: Jay Joyce) |
| Single of the Year | “You Look Like You Love Me” – Ella Langley, Riley Green (Producer: Will Bundy) |
| Song of the Year | “Dirt Cheap” – Songwriter: Josh Phillips (Artist: Cody Johnson) |
| New Female Artist of the Year | Ella Langley |
| New Male Artist of the Year | Zach Top |
7. Shaking Things Up: Surprises, Snubs, and What This Means for Country (and the CMA Awards 2025!)
No awards show is complete without a few “Hmm, interesting” moments. While many wins felt deserved, there were a few head-scratchers or notable omissions. Morgan Wallen and Post Malone, despite multiple nominations (seven and five respectively), were completely shut out. Ouch. That’s gotta sting a little, especially with their collaboration “I Had Some Help” being such a massive hit.
And then there’s Kelsea Ballerini. Nominated for five consecutive years, and again this year for Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist, and Music Event, she once again went home without a trophy. As she said in a January 2025 interview, “I don’t win things… and I’m cool with it.” She views getting to perform as an award in itself, which is a fantastic attitude. Still, her fans (myself included!) can’t help but feel a little pang for her. Will this be her year at the CMA Awards 2025? We can only hope!
The landscape of country music is definitely dynamic. We’re seeing powerful women like Lainey and Ella not just participating but *dominating*. We’re seeing genre-bending collaborations and a real appreciation for authentic storytelling. The acm awards 2025 date, May 8th, certainly marked a significant night. It makes you wonder: what trends will continue, and what new surprises await as we head towards the other major events in the country music awards 2025 calendar?
So, there you have it – the whirlwind recap of the ACM Awards 2025! From emotional speeches to unforgettable performances and fashion that slayed, it was a night that celebrated the heart and soul of country music. It definitely gave us a lot to talk about and even more to look forward to. What was your favorite moment? And who are you betting on for the upcoming CMA Awards 2025? The conversation is just getting started!
8. Crystal Ball Time: What Do the ACMs Mean for the CMA Awards 2025?
Okay, awards show junkies, now for the really fun part! The ACMs have set the stage, but the country music awards 2025 season is far from over. The next big question on everyone’s lips: How will these ACM results shake out at the CMA Awards 2025? Let’s dust off our crystal balls (and maybe our cowboy hats) and do some good ol’ fashioned speculating!
Lainey’s Reign: A CMA Sweep on the Horizon?
With FOUR ACMs, including the massive Entertainer of the Year, Lainey Wilson is undeniably the artist to beat. The CMAs often mirror ACM sentiment for top categories. Could we see her replicate this success, especially for EOTY and Female Artist? It’s looking mighty probable! She’s got the hits, the heart, and the industry buzz. CMA Awards 2025 voters, take note! Her star power is undeniable, and if the ACMs are any indication, she’s just getting started this awards season.
New Artist Battle: Can Ella Langley Continue Her Ascent?
<p>Ella Langley’s ACM triumph was the stuff of dreams. Winning New Female Artist (and three others for “You Look Like You Love Me”!) gives her incredible momentum. The CMA New Artist of the Year category is always fiercely competitive. Will her ACM recognition pave the way for a CMA win too? Or will other rising stars like ACM New Male Artist Zach Top or ACM Best New Duo/Group The Red Clay Strays make a stronger case by the time CMA voting rolls around? This will be one category where the CMA Awards 2025 could bring a fresh surprise!
The Redemption Arc: Will Overlooked Artists Shine at the CMAs?
Let’s be real, the “snubs” (or should we say “surprising omissions”?) at the ACMs got people talking. Morgan Wallen and Post Malone walking away empty-handed despite major nominations and a chart-topping hit like “I Had Some Help” was a bit of a head-scratcher for many. And then there’s Kelsea Ballerini, a consistent nominee with undeniable talent and fan connection, who is still awaiting that big Entertainer or Female Artist win. The CMA Awards 2025 could be a different story. Sometimes, one awards body’s oversight becomes another’s opportunity to reward a different set of achievements or perhaps capture a mid-year surge. Could this be the year for Kelsea’s emotional breakthrough, or will Morgan Wallen’s massive popularity translate into CMA gold? The anticipation is part of the fun!
CMA Trends to Watch: What Story Will They Tell?
Based on the ACMs, here are a few trends we’ll be watching for at the CMA Awards 2025:
- Female Forward: The ACMs strongly showcased the incredible strength and diversity of female artists, with Lainey and Ella leading the charge. Will the CMAs continue this narrative, recognizing the chart-topping, ground-breaking work of women in country? We certainly hope so!
- Power of the Duet/Collaboration: “You Look Like You Love Me” was a monster hit at the ACMs. With so many exciting collaborations happening in country music, will the CMA Musical Event and Music Video categories reflect this trend?
- Authenticity & Songwriting Prowess: “Dirt Cheap” (Cody Johnson) winning ACM Song of the Year highlighted the industry’s appreciation for raw, relatable storytelling. This is often a sweet spot for CMA voters too, who value lyrical depth and emotional connection.
- The “New Traditional” Wave: Artists like Zach Top are bringing a more traditional country sound back into the mainstream. Will the CMAs embrace this resurgence alongside contemporary country?
Your Turn: Predict the CMA Awards 2025!
This is all just fun speculation, of course! The beauty of the country music awards 2025 season is its unpredictability and the passionate debates it sparks among fans. What are YOUR bold predictions for the CMA Awards 2025? Who do you think will be the big winners? Who are you rooting for to take home a trophy? And what was your biggest surprise from the ACMs that you think will influence the CMAs?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below – let’s get the country music conversation buzzing! We’ll be eagerly awaiting the nominations and, eventually, the big night itself. Here’s to another fantastic year of country music!
ACM Awards 2025: Key Questions Answered
When and where did the ACM Awards 2025 take place?
The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards took place in Frisco, Texas on May 8th, as stated in the introduction.
Who were the top award winners at the ACM Awards 2025?
Lainey Wilson and Ella Langley were the top winners, each securing four awards. This is highlighted in the bar chart and text describing their wins.
What key awards did Lainey Wilson win?
Lainey Wilson won Entertainer of the Year (for the second year running), Album of the Year for “Whirlwind,” Female Artist of the Year, and Artist-Songwriter of the Year.
Which awards did newcomer Ella Langley win?
Ella Langley won New Female Artist of the Year. Her song “You Look Like You Love Me” (with Riley Green) also won Single of the Year, Music Event of the Year, and Visual Media of the Year.
Who hosted the ACM Awards 2025, and how many times have they hosted?
Reba McEntire hosted the ACM Awards 2025, marking her 18th time hosting the event.
Were there any notable snubs or artists who didn’t win despite multiple nominations at the ACM Awards 2025?
Yes, Morgan Wallen and Post Malone, despite seven and five nominations respectively, were completely shut out. Kelsea Ballerini, nominated for Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist, and Music Event, also went home without a trophy.
ACM Awards 2025: Wrapping Up the Night and Eyeing the Future
So, there you have it – the whirlwind recap of the ACM Awards 2025! From emotional speeches to unforgettable performances and fashion that slayed, it was a night that celebrated the heart and soul of country music. It definitely gave us a lot to talk about and even more to look forward to. What was your favorite moment? And who are you betting on for the upcoming CMA Awards 2025? The conversation is just getting started!
