The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards delivered a spectacular celebration of country music's rich history, featuring legendary performances and prestigious honors. Host Reba McEntire opened the event with a vibrant 14-minute tribute to six decades of iconic songs, performed by some of the genre's most celebrated artists. The evening also saw Cody Johnson win Song of the Year for "Dirt Cheap," while Keith Urban was presented with the coveted Triple Crown Award. With numerous other accolades handed out, this year’s ceremony highlighted both established stars and emerging talents in the industry.
Kicking off the show in grand style, Reba McEntire led an impressive lineup of musicians through a series of timeless hits. Her rendition of Merle Haggard’s “Okie from Muskogee” set the tone for what would become a memorable evening. Following her performance, Clint Black took the stage with Glen Campbell’s “Rhinestone Cowboy,” showcasing his signature charisma. Wynonna Judd then captivated the audience with The Judds’ heartfelt classic “Why Not Me.” Other standout performances included LeAnn Rimes revisiting her 1997 hit “Blue,” Little Big Town delivering their chart-topping “Girl Crush,” and Dan + Shay enchanting viewers with “Tequila.” Each act paid homage to the enduring legacy of country music.
As the night progressed, several key awards were announced. Lionel Richie presented Cody Johnson with the Song of the Year award for his smash hit “Dirt Cheap.” Meanwhile, Keith Urban received the prestigious Triple Crown Award, marking only the second time in over a decade that the trophy has been awarded live during the ceremony. Earlier in the week, pre-show honors recognized Ella Langley as Female New Artist of the Year and Zach Top as Male New Artist of the Year. Lainey Wilson further cemented her status as one of country music’s brightest stars by receiving the Artist-Songwriter of the Year title alongside Jessie Jo Dillon, who claimed Songwriter of the Year for the second consecutive year.
Beyond individual achievements, the ACM Awards provided fans with unforgettable collaborations. Among these highlights were duets between Backstreet Boys and Rascal Flatts, as well as Jelly Roll and Shaboozey. Brooks & Dunn joined forces with Cody Johnson, creating a powerful blend of traditional and contemporary sounds. Additional performances came from rising star Ella Langley, seasoned vocalist Miranda Lambert, and cross-genre sensations like Blake Shelton and Alan Jackson. These moments underscored the diversity and depth of today’s country music scene.
In addition to the live broadcast, fans had multiple ways to enjoy the festivities. Streaming options on Prime Video and Amazon Music's Twitch Live channel ensured accessibility for audiences across different time zones. This inclusive approach allowed more people than ever before to experience the magic of the ACM Awards.
From historic performances to groundbreaking accolades, the 60th ACM Awards showcased the best of country music. As legends passed the torch to new generations, it became clear that the genre continues to thrive under the influence of both its storied past and promising future. The night ended not just as a celebration of talent but as a testament to the enduring appeal of country music worldwide.