The Academy of Country Music has revealed the recipients of the Special Awards for the 60th ACM Awards cycle. These honorees will be celebrated at the 18th Annual ACM Honors on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Nashville Yards’ newest venue, The Pinnacle. The evening promises live performances, tributes, and celebrations of artists, songwriters, and industry figures who have made lasting contributions to the Country Music community.
Honoring Excellence Across the Industry
“This year’s ACM Special Awards honorees each have played an essential role in Country Music’s success,” said Kerri Edwards, Chair of the ACM Special Awards committee. “From legendary artists to powerhouse executives, we are so excited to celebrate these well-deserved recipients next month at The Pinnacle.”
Along with the Special Award winners, previously announced Artist-Songwriter of the Year Lainey Wilson, Songwriter of the Year Jessie Jo Dillon, and the ACM Studio Recording and Industry Award winners will be honored during the event.
Tickets and Performers
Pre-sale tickets for ACM A-List subscribers and Academy members begin Thursday, July 10, with general sales starting Friday, July 11, via AXS. Performers for the event will be revealed in the coming weeks.
2025 ACM Special Award Honorees
ACM Film Award: “Twisters”
The blockbuster “Twisters” earns the ACM Film Award for its outstanding contribution to Country Music in cinema. Featuring a soundtrack packed with original music by Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, and others, Twisters: The Album is the first all-original Country soundtrack since Urban Cowboy.
ACM Icon Award: Eric Church and Ben Vaughn
Eric Church is being recognized for his genre-defying career and philanthropic efforts, including raising over $24 million for Hurricane Helene relief and donating royalties to North Carolina. The late Ben Vaughn is honored for his four-decade influence as a publisher and executive, supporting stars like Chris Stapleton, Kacey Musgraves, and Thomas Rhett.
ACM International Award: Luke Combs
Luke Combs has captivated a global audience with over 10 billion streams and sold-out tours across Europe and Australia. His international reach continues to introduce Country Music to new listeners worldwide.
ACM Lift Every Voice Award: Rissi Palmer
Rissi Palmer is recognized for championing diversity in Country Music. Through her Color Me Country radio show and foundation, she has elevated artists of color and awarded more than $200,000 in grants to support emerging talent.
ACM Lifting Lives Award: Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll is honored for his dedication to at-risk youth and addiction recovery. His efforts have raised over $600,000, included visits to rehabilitation centers, and even testimony before Congress to support the FEND Off Fentanyl Act.
ACM Milestone Award: Randy Travis
Randy Travis is celebrated for his ongoing legacy in Country Music. His pioneering role in the New Traditionalist Movement and his courageous recovery from a stroke have inspired generations. His use of AI to preserve unreleased music continues to shape the future of the genre.
ACM Poet’s Award: Mac McAnally
Songwriter Mac McAnally is honored for his lifetime contributions. From Muscle Shoals beginnings to penning hits for Jimmy Buffett, Alabama, and Kenny Chesney, his literary flair has left a lasting imprint on Nashville’s songwriting legacy.
ACM Service Award: Lori Badgett
Lori Badgett is recognized for her 25+ years of leadership in Nashville’s financial and music communities. A key figure at City National Bank and a driving force within the Academy, she played a critical role in the ACM’s move from Los Angeles to Nashville.
ACM Spirit Award: Cody Johnson
Known for his commitment to traditional Country Music, Cody Johnson is celebrated for his independent rise and Texas-rooted sound. With nearly 10 billion global streams, he exemplifies the grit and storytelling spirit of Merle Haggard.
Previously Announced Winners
ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year: Lainey Wilson
Lainey Wilson takes home her first win in this category, adding to her growing list of accolades. She is only the third recipient of this award, following HARDY in 2023 and Chris Stapleton in 2024.
ACM Songwriter of the Year: Jessie Jo Dillon
Jessie Jo Dillon wins this category for the second consecutive year, continuing her reign as one of Nashville’s top songwriting talents.
Celebrating 60 Years of Country Music Excellence
The 2025 ACM Honors celebrates not just this year’s recipients, but the Academy’s six-decade legacy of uplifting artists, songwriters, and professionals who drive the Country Music industry forward. With more than 5,000 members and a strong philanthropic arm through ACM Lifting Lives, the Academy remains a vital part of the genre’s evolution.
