Lainey Wilson was the big winner at the 2024 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, taking home both Female Artist of the Year and the top prize of Entertainer of the Year.
Wilson's Emotional Speech
During her speech, Wilson reflected on her journey, saying, "I've been in Nashville for 13 years doing this. Everybody in this category has loved on me and believed in me, and I love y'all for that."
An Exclusive Club
Wilson joins a select group of women who have earned the top prize. Miranda Lambert won Entertainer of the Year in 2022, and in 2020, Carrie Underwood and Thomas Rhett tied for the title. Before that, Taylor Swift won in 2012.
Performances and Other Awards
Opening the Show
Wilson opened the 59th annual ACMs with a cover of Little Texas' "God Blessed Texas," followed by her new single, "Hang Tight Honey."
Jordan Davis Wins Song of the Year
Clay Walker and Randy Travis presented Jordan Davis with Song of the Year for his hit "Next Thing You Know." Davis thanked his fans, saying, "I love songwriting because of songs that won Song of the Year, so to be holding this right now is crazy."
Music Event of the Year
Wilson also won Music Event of the Year with Jelly Roll for their song "Save Me." Jelly Roll expressed his gratitude, saying, "No pun intended, but seriously, this song saved me."
Honoring Toby Keith
Jason Aldean delivered a moving tribute to the late Toby Keith with an acoustic performance of "Should've Been a Cowboy," while Keith's family watched from the crowd. Keith, who passed away in February at age 62 from stomach cancer, had won 14 ACM Awards in his career.
Other Major Winners
Chris Stapleton
Chris Stapleton won both Album of the Year and Male Artist of the Year. During his acceptance speech, he expressed his gratitude, saying, "There's so many great guys in that category and I'm happy just to be included in this company."
Luke Combs
Luke Combs, the most nominated artist of the night, won Single of the Year for his cover of Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car." Last year, Chapman became the first Black songwriter to win Song of the Year at the Country Music Awards for Combs' cover.
Duo and Group of the Year
Dan and Shay won Duo of the Year, and Old Dominion took home Group of the Year.
Memorable Performances
Special Guests and Tributes
Chris Stapleton performed his new song "Think I'm in Love with You" with a special guest, Dua Lipa. Post Malone debuted a new song, "Never Love You Again," which led into his hit with Morgan Wallen, "I Had Some Help." Malone and Reba McEntire also paid tribute to Dickey Betts with "Ramblin' Man."
Highlights of the Night
Jelly Roll performed his new song "Liar," Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan collaborated on "Mountain with a View" and "Stick Season," and Tigirlily Gold sang "I Tried A Ring On." Texas-born Cody Johnson performed "Dirt Cheap," and Miranda Lambert debuted her new single "Wranglers."
Other Notable Performances
Kane Brown delivered a heartfelt cover of "Georgia On My Mind," Thomas Rhett sang "Beautiful As You," and Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani performed "Purple Irises." Park McCollum did "Burn It Down," and Nate Smith and Avril Lavigne performed their new song "Bulletproof."
Closing the Show
Host Reba McEntire closed out the night with her new single, "I Can't."
Watch the ACM Awards
The ACM Awards were live-streamed on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch Live.
More Highlights from the ACM Awards
Special Awards and Recognitions
The 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards didn't just honor the biggest names in country music but also recognized some of the industry's most influential figures.
Industry Icon Award
The Industry Icon Award was presented to legendary songwriter and producer, Shane McAnally, for his immense contributions to the country music industry. His work has shaped the careers of many top artists, and he was lauded for his creativity and dedication.
Humanitarian Award
Carrie Underwood received the Humanitarian Award for her extensive charity work and efforts to give back to communities in need. In her acceptance speech, Underwood emphasized the importance of using her platform for positive change and thanked her fans for their continued support.
Emerging Artists Take the Stage
Rising Stars Perform
The ACM Awards also showcased performances by some of country music's rising stars. Priscilla Block delivered a powerful rendition of her hit song "Just About Over You," earning a standing ovation from the audience. Similarly, Parker McCollum’s heartfelt performance of "Pretty Heart" resonated deeply with viewers.
New Male and Female Artists of the Year
Nate Smith was honored as the New Male Artist of the Year, while Megan Moroney took home the award for New Female Artist of the Year. Both artists expressed their gratitude and excitement, promising to continue working hard and making great music for their fans.
A Night of Unforgettable Moments
The 2024 ACM Awards were filled with memorable moments, from heartfelt speeches and emotional tributes to high-energy performances that had everyone on their feet.
Collaborations and Surprises
The night was packed with unexpected collaborations and surprise guest appearances. One standout moment was when Maren Morris joined forces with Shania Twain for a dynamic performance of "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" that had the crowd roaring.
Celebrating Diversity
The awards also highlighted the growing diversity in country music, with artists from various backgrounds taking the stage and receiving recognition. This year's show demonstrated the genre's expanding horizons and the inclusion of more diverse voices and stories.
Looking Forward
As the night drew to a close, the excitement for the future of country music was palpable. With so many talented artists, both established and emerging, the genre continues to evolve and thrive.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards celebrated the best in country music, honoring those who have made significant contributions while also shining a spotlight on the next generation of stars. It was a night filled with music, emotion, and a shared love for a genre that continues to touch hearts and bring people together.
Fans are already looking forward to what next year’s ACM Awards will bring, eager to see who will take home the top prizes and what unforgettable moments will unfold on stage. Until then, country music lovers will continue to enjoy the incredible talent and creativity that the genre has to offer.