Emotional Tributes and Dazzling Performances: Highlights from the 2024 ACM Awards
The 59th annual Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, held on May 16, 2024, at The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, was a spectacular celebration of country music, featuring an array of performances and notable award winners.
Hosted by the legendary Reba McEntire for a record 17th time, the evening showcased the genre’s inclusivity and evolution, highlighted by cross-genre collaborations and heartfelt tributes.
The ACM Awards this year were marked by a blend of traditional country sounds and surprising pop collaborations. Post Malone debuted songs from his upcoming country album, striking a chord with his performance of “Never Love You Again” and a solo version of “I Had Some Help.” Dressed in a Dallas Cowboys jersey, Malone’s set was a nod to his Texas roots.
Dua Lipa’s surprise duet with Chris Stapleton on “Think I’m in Love With You” from Stapleton’s award-winning album Higher was another highlight. Their smoky, bluesy performance captivated the audience, blending Stapleton’s grizzled vocals with Lipa’s polished tones.
Stapleton later took home the awards for Male Artist of the Year and Album of the Year.
Nate Smith and Avril Lavigne’s rendition of “Bulletproof” brought a punk edge to the stage, while Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan’s performance of “Mountain With a View” and “Stick Season” showcased their harmonious collaboration.
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani’s duet “Purple Irises” added a touch of romance to the evening.
One of the most poignant moments was Jason Aldean’s tribute to the late Toby Keith. Aldean’s heartfelt performance of “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” accompanied by a string ensemble, honored Keith’s significant contributions to country music. The tribute left many in tears, including Keith’s family, who were present in the audience.
Jelly Roll, a newcomer to the ACM Awards, delivered an emotional acceptance speech after winning Music Event of the Year for “Save Me” with Lainey Wilson. He also performed his new song “Liar,” touching on themes of struggle and redemption. His candid and moving words about overcoming dark times resonated deeply with the audience.
Lainey Wilson emerged as the biggest winner of the night, claiming the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award. She also won Female Artist of the Year, adding to her growing list of accolades, which includes her first Grammy earlier this year. In her acceptance speech, Wilson emphasized the importance of camaraderie among women in country music, sharing how veteran artists like Wynonna Judd have supported and inspired her.
Celebrating New and Veteran Artists
The ACM Awards also celebrated new talent, with Megan Moroney winning New Female Artist of the Year, Nate Smith taking home New Male Artist of the Year, and Tigirlily Gold earning New Duo or Group of the Year. These awards were presented at the ACM Country Kickoff fan festival earlier in the week.
Veteran artists were not forgotten, with Miranda Lambert performing her new single “Wranglers” and Kane Brown delivering a soulful rendition of Ray Charles’ “Georgia on My Mind.” The evening concluded with a powerful performance by Reba McEntire, who also earned laughs with her witty remarks reflecting on her long career in country music.