Celebrating Country Music Icons at the ACM Honors

The Academy of Country Music Honors ceremony, scheduled for August 20th in Nashville, promises to be a remarkable event filled with moving tributes, captivating performances, and well-deserved accolades for country music’s finest.

The ACM recently announced its Special Award recipients for the upcoming ceremony, showcasing an impressive roster of legendary artists. This year’s honorees represent a veritable who’s who of country music’s most influential figures.

Luke Combs and Eric Church: Honored for Their Impact

Eric Church and the late Ben Vaughn will each receive the prestigious ACM Icon Award, recognizing their extensive contributions to the genre. Church’s award acknowledges not only his exceptional songwriting but also his charitable endeavors and innovative artistic direction. Luke Combs will be presented with the ACM International Award, a testament to his considerable global reach. His sold-out international tours and billions of streams demonstrate his capacity to bring country music to a worldwide audience.

Celebrating Tradition and Innovation

Cody Johnson will receive the ACM Spirit Award for his unwavering commitment to traditional country music while forging a successful career from the ground up. His heartfelt storytelling and unfiltered emotion embody the spirit of genuine country music. Country music icon Randy Travis will be honored with the ACM Milestone Award in recognition of his transformative career and enduring legacy. His inspiring perseverance, even following a severe stroke, continues to captivate his admirers and extends to groundbreaking work utilizing AI-assisted music projects.

Beyond the Stage: Recognizing Impact and Influence

The ACM Honors also shines a light on those who contribute beyond musical performance. Jelly Roll will receive the ACM Lifting Lives Award for his commitment to helping at-risk youth and supporting addiction recovery efforts. The film “Twisters” will be presented with the ACM Film Award, acknowledging its original country music soundtrack and its celebration of rural American life.

A Night of Celebration and Recognition

Lainey Wilson and Jessie Jo Dillon will also be recognized, alongside recipients of industry and studio recording awards. The 2025 ACM Honors promises to be a memorable night, blending historical significance with moving performances. It’s an event that should not be missed.