The 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards: Your Ultimate Guide

Get ready for a night of country music’s biggest stars, unforgettable performances, and well-deserved accolades as the 60th annual Academy of Country Music Awards takes center stage. The celebration of country music’s past, present, and future is set to grace screens Thursday, May 8 at 8 p.m. EDT.

How to Watch: Streaming Information

This year, the ACM Awards are taking a new approach to broadcasting, offering unparalleled accessibility for fans. The entire show will stream live on Amazon Prime Video, completely free of charge for all Amazon Prime members. Yes, you read that right – no additional cost to witness the biggest night in country music.

For those already immersed in the Amazon ecosystem, this is fantastic news. Prime Video provides a seamless streaming experience, allowing you to enjoy the show from the comfort of your own home on your television, laptop, tablet, or even your smartphone. The availability on Prime Video significantly broadens the show’s reach, making it accessible to a wider audience than ever before.

But that’s not all! Amazon is further expanding its reach by also streaming the ACM Awards on their Twitch account. Twitch, known for its live streaming of video games and other content, will introduce the ACM Awards to a new demographic, potentially attracting viewers who might not typically tune into an awards show.

Honoring Country Music’s Finest

The ACM Awards are a celebration of the best and brightest in country music. The awards honor artists who have made significant contributions to the genre, recognizing their talent, creativity, and impact on the industry.

This year, the nominations span a wide range of artists, from established superstars to rising newcomers. The awards highlight the diversity and evolution of country music, showcasing both traditional sounds and contemporary influences. The anticipation is palpable as fans eagerly await to see who will take home the coveted awards.

Ella Langley Leads the Pack

One name dominating the nomination list this year is Ella Langley. The artist behind the hit song "You Look Like You Love Me" has garnered an impressive eight nominations. Langley’s meteoric rise in the country music scene is a testament to her talent and the resonating power of her music. Her song’s infectious melody and relatable lyrics have captivated audiences, making her a force to be reckoned with.

While Langley’s nominations are a testament to her breakout success, she is joined by a host of other talented artists vying for recognition.

Country Music Heavyweights

Of course, no ACM Awards would be complete without the presence of country music’s biggest stars. This year, the nominations include a stellar lineup of established artists, including Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, Kelsea Ballerini, Chris Stapleton, Riley Green, and Cody Johnson. These artists have consistently topped the charts, sold out arenas, and captivated audiences with their music. Their presence at the ACM Awards guarantees a night of star power and unforgettable moments.

Post Malone’s Intriguing Nomination

One nomination that has sparked some discussion is that of Post Malone. While primarily known for his rap and pop music, Malone has demonstrated a genuine love for country music, and his foray into the genre has been met with both curiosity and enthusiasm. His nomination highlights the blurring lines between genres and the growing acceptance of artists who experiment with different sounds. Whether he wins or not, Malone’s presence at the ACM Awards adds an element of surprise and intrigue to the evening.

New Artist Winners Announced

While the suspense builds for the major award categories, the ACMs have already announced the winners for the New Female and Male Artists of the Year. Ella Langley and Zach Top have been crowned as the recipients of these prestigious awards, recognizing their emerging talent and promising futures in country music. This early recognition sets the stage for their careers and undoubtedly fuels their motivation to continue creating impactful music.

Keith Urban’s Triple Crown

A special moment of the night will be the recognition of Keith Urban’s Triple Crown Award. The ACM Triple Crown is a rare and prestigious honor bestowed upon artists who have won New Male/Female Artist of the Year, Male/Female Artist of the Year, and Entertainer of the Year. Urban achieved this feat in 2019, but the official honor has been pending. The presentation of the Triple Crown Award to Urban will be a highlight of the night, celebrating his remarkable career and contributions to country music.

Reba McEntire Returns as Host

Leading the charge as host is none other than the legendary Reba McEntire. With a remarkable 17 previous hosting gigs under her belt, McEntire brings her wit, charm, and unparalleled knowledge of country music to the stage. Her experience and presence guarantee a smooth and entertaining show. McEntire’s return as host is a welcome sight for fans who have come to associate her with the ACM Awards.

Performances to Watch Out For

But perhaps the most anticipated aspect of the ACM Awards is the live performances. This year’s lineup is packed with talent, featuring a mix of established stars and rising artists. The stage will come alive with the sounds of country music, showcasing the diverse range of styles and sounds within the genre.

Expect mesmerizing performances from the likes of Ella Langley, Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton, and many more. Each artist brings their unique energy and stage presence, promising a night of unforgettable musical moments.

Brooks & Dunn and Cody Johnson Collaboration

Among the many anticipated performances, one stands out as particularly exciting: Brooks & Dunn with Cody Johnson. This collaboration brings together a legendary duo with a contemporary star, creating a fusion of classic and modern country sounds. The pairing promises a high-energy performance that will have the audience on their feet, singing along to every word.

In conclusion, the 60th annual Academy of Country Music Awards is shaping up to be an extraordinary event. With a star-studded lineup of nominees, captivating performances, and the added accessibility of streaming on Amazon Prime Video, it’s a night that no country music fan will want to miss. Get ready to tune in on Thursday, May 8 at 8 p.m. EDT and celebrate the best in country music.