ACM HONORS DEBUTS WITH A NIGHT OF UNFORGETTABLE TRIBUTES AND AWARDS
The Academy of Country Music® hosted a sold-out audience for the 18th ACM Honors last night at The Pinnacle at Nashville Yards, a spectacular evening of live performances and heartfelt tributes. Often called “the Country Music industry’s favorite night,” the program united artists, songwriters, and fans to recognize the genre’s most impactful contributors.
“Tonight is a powerful reminder of the heart of Country Music,” said Damon Whiteside, Academy of Country Music CEO. “To celebrate the entire community of artists, songwriters, musicians, and industry leaders all together is a true reflection of the spirit of this genre and the lasting impact it continues to have.”
The star-studded program, hosted by Carly Pearce and Russell Dickerson, kicked off with the duo’s standout duet of “Jackson,” honoring 1991 ACM Pioneer Award winner Johnny Cash. Throughout the night, audiences were treated to a series of captivating tributes. Rising artist Carter Faith joined Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild to perform “Lies Lies Lies” for ACM Songwriter of the Year Jessie Jo Dillon. Ashley Gorley honored Jelly Roll’s ACM Lifting Lives Award with a powerful performance of “I Am Not Okay,” while the honoree himself shared an inspiring video message encouraging further donations.
Additional highlights included Amy Grant’s heartfelt tribute to ACM Poets Award winner Mac McAnally with his composition “All These Years,” Chris Janson’s newly-penned song “Music Man” for ACM Icon Award recipient Ben Vaughn, and Jamey Johnson’s moving rendition of “Three Wooden Crosses” for ACM Milestone Award honoree Randy Travis. ACM Lift Every Voice Award recipient Rissi Palmer was honored with a three-song medley from Miko Marks, Madeline Edwards, and K. Michelle, while HARDY performed “HomeBoy” for Eric Church. The night concluded with a stirring tribute to ACM Spirit Award recipient Cody Johnson, as Luke Bryan performed “Til You Can’t.”
The evening also celebrated the winners of the 2025 ACM Industry and Studio Recording Awards, with Tucker Wetmore recognizing top venues, promoters, talent buyers, and musicians, including Producers Dave Cobb and Audio Engineer Drew Bollman.
For those who missed the event, a three-hour special episode of CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition will air Saturday, September 27. Hosted by CMT’s Cody Alan and Carissa Culiner, along with Dickerson and Pearce, the episode will feature exclusive backstage conversations and memorable moments.
About the Academy of Country Music
Founded in Southern California in 1964 as a regional trade organization, the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC (ACM) has grown in the 60 years since into a leading association for the Country Music industry. Headquartered in Nashville, TN, and with a record-high membership of more than 5,000 worldwide, the Academy serves as a powerhouse advocate for Country fans, artists, and all facets of the business, as well as a supporter of philanthropic work through charitable partner ACM LIFTING LIVES, dedicated to improving lives through the power of music and providing aid in times of need.