The 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards truly belonged to Lainey Wilson. She dominated the night, walking away with the prestigious Entertainer of the Year and Female Artist of the Year awards.
Wilson opened her acceptance speech with heartfelt gratitude: “I’ve been doing this in Nashville for 13 years,” she shared. “Everyone in this category has loved and believed in me. And I love y’all for that.” Her win placed her in an elite group of women who’ve earned the highest honor, joining the ranks of Miranda Lambert, who won Entertainer of the Year in 2022, and Carrie Underwood, who tied for the title in 2020.
Wilson also kicked off the 59th ACMs with an energetic cover of Little Texas’ “God Blessed Texas” before diving into her new hit, “Hang Tight Honey.” Later in the show, Jordan Davis received the Song of the Year award for his chart-topping hit “Next Thing You Know,” expressing his thanks to fans for supporting the song that helped make the win possible.
The Music Event of the Year award also went to Lainey Wilson, alongside Jelly Roll, for their collaboration on the emotional “Save Me.” Jelly Roll gave an emotional speech, sharing how the song saved him during some of his darkest moments.
Held at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, the ACMs were hosted by the legendary Reba McEntire. The evening included heartfelt tributes, including one from Jason Aldean, who performed “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” in memory of Toby Keith, who passed away earlier this year.
Chris Stapleton bagged the Album and Male Artist of the Year awards, humbly accepting with, “There’s so many great guys in that category, and I’m happy just to be included in this company.” He later took the stage for a performance of his new song “Think I’m in Love with You,” joined by the talented Dua Lipa.
The night also saw Post Malone debuting a new track, “Never Love You Again,” and teaming up with Reba McEntire for a special tribute to Dickey Betts of the Allman Brothers Band, who passed away last month.
Other winners included Luke Combs, who claimed Single of the Year for his cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” and Dan + Shay and Old Dominion, who won Duo and Group of the Year, respectively.
The stage was set for more memorable performances, with Jelly Roll rocking his new song “Liar,” Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan collaborating on “Mountain with a View” and “Stick Season,” and Miranda Lambert debuting her new single “Wranglers.” Fans were treated to appearances by stars like Cody Johnson, Kane Brown, Thomas Rhett, and the beloved couple Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani, who brought their hit “Purple Irises” to the stage.
It was an unforgettable evening, full of surprises, emotional moments, and, of course, incredible music.
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