ACM Awards Announce Early Winners Ahead of May 8 Ceremony

FRISCO, Texas – The Academy of Country Music is unveiling the winners of its 60th annual awards ahead of the live ceremony scheduled for May 8. On April 24, Zach Top was awarded New Male Artist of the Year before his concert in Wilmington, North Carolina.

“I couldn’t be more honored, and I can’t say a big enough thank you to my fans for loving music and loving what we do on the road. It means the world to me,” Top said in a statement. “I’ve always wanted to just play and sing for a living, and I get to do that now.”

Later, on April 25, Ella Langley was recognized as New Female Artist of the Year during a performance in Knoxville, Tennessee. Langley leads all nominees with eight nominations, propelled by her duet “You Look Like You Love Me” with Riley Green. Both Top and Langley are among a talented group of nominees who will compete for top honors at the ceremony.

Among other nominees are Cody Johnson, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson, each with seven nominations. Chris Stapleton received six while Post Malone earned five with his entry into country music.

Reba McEntire returns as the host for the 18th time, alongside acts like Eric Church, Blake Shelton, and Lainey Wilson who are set to perform. The 2025 ACM Awards will stream live on Prime Video, celebrating six decades of country music.

The event, produced by Dick Clark Productions, will take place at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Fans can expect a two-and-a-half-hour show featuring special performances and collaborations, marking a significant milestone in the awards’ history.

This year marks the first time since 2023 that the awards show will be held at its current venue, underscoring its continuing legacy within the country music industry.