The 60th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards are set to dazzle fans on May 8, 2025, streaming live from the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. As the anticipation builds, let’s delve into the top contenders and make some bold predictions for the night’s biggest honors.
Entertainer of the Year
Nominees:
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Kelsea Ballerini
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Luke Combs
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Cody Johnson
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Jelly Roll
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Chris Stapleton
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Morgan Wallen
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Lainey Wilson
Prediction: Lainey Wilson is poised to clinch this prestigious title for the second consecutive year. With seven nominations and a standout album, “Whirlwind,” her momentum is undeniable.
Album of the Year
Nominees:
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“Am I Okay? (I’ll Be Fine)” – Megan Moroney
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“Beautifully Broken” – Jelly Roll
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“Cold Beer & Country Music” – Zach Top
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“F-1 Trillion” – Post Malone
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“Whirlwind” – Lainey Wilson
Prediction: Lainey Wilson’s “Whirlwind” is the frontrunner, showcasing her growth and resonating deeply with fans and critics alike.
Male Artist of the Year
Nominees:
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Luke Combs
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Cody Johnson
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Jelly Roll
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Chris Stapleton
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Morgan Wallen
Prediction: Jelly Roll emerges as a strong contender, with his album “Beautifully Broken” making significant waves in the industry.
Female Artist of the Year
Nominees:
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Kelsea Ballerini
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Ella Langley
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Megan Moroney
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Kacey Musgraves
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Lainey Wilson
Prediction: Lainey Wilson is expected to continue her winning streak, solidifying her status as a leading female artist in country music.
New Female Artist of the Year
Nominees:
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Kassi Ashton
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Ashley Cooke
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Dasha
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Ella Langley
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Jessie Murph
Prediction:
has already secured this award, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
New Male Artist of the Year
Nominees:
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Gavin Adcock
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Shaboozey
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Zach Top
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Tucker Wetmore
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Bailey Zimmerman
Prediction: Zach Top has been announced as the winner, recognizing his impactful entry into the country music scene.
Single of the Year
Nominees:
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“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey
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“Dirt Cheap” – Cody Johnson
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“I Had Some Help” – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen
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“White Horse” – Chris Stapleton
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“You Look Like You Love Me” – Ella Langley, Riley Green
Prediction: “I Had Some Help” by Post Malone and Morgan Wallen stands out with its cross-genre appeal and widespread acclaim.
Song of the Year
Nominees:
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“4x4xU” – Lainey Wilson
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“The Architect” – Kacey Musgraves
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“Dirt Cheap” – Cody Johnson
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“I Had Some Help” – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen
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“You Look Like You Love Me” – Ella Langley, Riley Green
Prediction: “You Look Like You Love Me” by Ella Langley and Riley Green is anticipated to win, given its multiple nominations and strong fan support.
Duo of the Year
Nominees:
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Brooks & Dunn
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Brothers Osborne
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Dan + Shay
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Muscadine Bloodline
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The War and Treaty
Prediction: Dan + Shay are likely to take this award, continuing their successful run in the duo category.
Group of the Year
Nominees:
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Flatland Cavalry
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Little Big Town
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Old Dominion
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Rascal Flatts
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The Red Clay Strays
Prediction: Old Dominion is expected to reclaim this title, known for their consistent group performances.
Visual Media of the Year
Nominees:
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“4x4xU” – Lainey Wilson
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“Dirt Cheap” – Cody Johnson
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“I’m Gonna Love You” – Cody Johnson, Carrie Underwood
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“Think I’m In Love With You” – Chris Stapleton
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“You Look Like You Love Me” – Ella Langley, Riley Green
Prediction: “You Look Like You Love Me” is anticipated to win, reflecting its strong visual storytelling and popularity.
How to Watch
The 60th ACM Awards will stream live on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch on May 8 at 8 p.m. EDT / 7 p.m. CDT / 5 p.m. PDT. No Prime membership is required to watch the live stream.
As the countdown to the ACM Awards continues, fans eagerly await to see which of their favorite artists will take home the coveted trophies. With a blend of seasoned performers and rising stars, the night promises to be a memorable celebration of country music’s finest.
