Nashville, Tennessee – The Academy of Country Music (ACM) Honors are poised to celebrate significant achievements across the country music landscape, recognizing artists, songwriters, and industry leaders for their profound impact. The annual event, a key moment for the genre, is set to take place at The Pinnacle, where a distinguished group will receive prestigious accolades for their contributions both domestically and on the global stage.
This year’s honorees represent a diverse array of talent and influence, underscoring the breadth of the country music community. Among the recipients are global superstars driving the genre’s international expansion, esteemed industry figures whose work shapes careers behind the scenes, and acclaimed songwriters whose words resonate with millions.
Recognizing Global Reach: Luke Combs
Superstar Luke Combs is set to receive the ACM International Award, an honor inspired by the legendary Jim Reeves. This award recognizes an artist’s significant contributions to the global growth of Country Music, a sphere where Combs has demonstrated exceptional influence. His impact is quantified by staggering digital metrics, including over 10 billion streams and an audience of 25 million monthly listeners worldwide. These figures highlight his massive international appeal and pivotal role in introducing country music to new audiences around the globe. The ACM International Award underscores the Academy’s recognition of artists who transcend geographical boundaries and cultivate a worldwide fanbase for the genre.
A Legacy Honored: Ben Vaughn
The ACM will also pay a poignant tribute to the late Ben Vaughn, who will be posthumously honored with the Icon Award. Vaughn’s career spanned four decades, during which he was widely regarded as a powerful “voice for artists” within the music industry. As President and CEO of Warner Chappell Music Nashville, he held a pivotal position, instrumental in the development and success of numerous prominent artists. The list of talents he helped nurture includes some of the biggest names in contemporary country and roots music, such as Chris Stapleton, Thomas Rhett, Dan + Shay, Lady A, and Kacey Musgraves. The Icon Award acknowledges his lasting influence, leadership, and dedication to fostering creative talent and advocating on their behalf.
Celebrating Songwriting Excellence
Songwriting, the foundation of country music, is a central focus of the ACM Honors. Jessie Jo Dillon has been awarded the 60th ACM Songwriter of the Year Award, recognizing her outstanding craft and impact on the genre through her written work. Her contributions join a lineage of celebrated country music lyricists and composers.
Furthermore, Lainey Wilson will receive the ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year Award. This marks Wilson’s first win in this specific category, signifying her prowess not only as a performer but also as a significant contributor to the songs she sings. The Artist-Songwriter award highlights the unique fusion of creative roles embodied by artists who are deeply involved in the writing process. Previous recipients of this prestigious award include HARDY in 2023 and Chris Stapleton in 2024, placing Wilson among an elite group. This award adds to Wilson’s growing collection of accolades, bringing her total ACM Awards count to sixteen.
Honoring Industry Spirit: Chris Johnson
Rounding out the list of prominent honorees is Chris Johnson, who will receive the ACM Spirit Award. This award acknowledges individuals who embody the values and enduring spirit of country music and the broader industry community. Johnson’s recognition is also tied to significant digital success, with his work contributing to nearly 10 billion global streams, further illustrating the interconnectedness of artistic achievement and industry impact in the modern music landscape.
The Academy of Country Music Honors at The Pinnacle serves as a crucial platform to acknowledge the multifaceted talents and dedicated professionals who contribute to the vitality and evolution of country music, celebrating both those in the spotlight and the essential figures behind the scenes.
