The Americana Music Association has officially announced the nominees for the 24th annual Americana Honors & Awards. The nominations were unveiled in a video shared on social media, featuring appearances from Brandi Carlile, Kashus Culpepper, S.G. Goodman, Jim Lauderdale, Kacey Musgraves, and Molly Tuttle.
Winners will be revealed on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, during a special ceremony at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The event is a central highlight of AMERICANAFEST, which celebrates its 25th anniversary from September 9 through 13.
2025 Americana Honors & Awards Nominees
Album of the Year
- Lonesome Drifter, Charley Crockett; Produced by Charley Crockett & Shooter Jennings
- Foxes in the Snow, Jason Isbell; Produced by Jason Isbell & Gena Johnson
- Manning Fireworks, MJ Lenderman; Produced by Alex Farrar & MJ Lenderman
- South of Here, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats; Produced by Brad Cook
- Woodland, Gillian Welch & David Rawlings; Produced by David Rawlings
Artist of the Year
- Charley Crockett
- Sierra Ferrell
- Joy Oladokun
- Billy Strings
- Waxahatchee
Duo/Group of the Year
- Julien Baker & TORRES
- Dawes
- Larkin Poe
- The Mavericks
- Gillian Welch & David Rawlings
Emerging Act of the Year
- Noeline Hofmann
- MJ Lenderman
- Medium Build
- Maggie Rose
- Jesse Welles
Instrumentalist of the Year
- Fred Eltringham
- Alex Hargreaves
- Megan Jane
- Kaitlyn Raitz
- Seth Taylor
Song of the Year
- “Johnny Moonshine,” Maggie Antone; written by Maggie Antone, Natalie Hemby & Aaron Raitiere
- “Ancient Light,” I’m With Her; written by Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O’Donovan & Sara Watkins
- “Wristwatch,” MJ Lenderman; written by MJ Lenderman
- “Sunshine Getaway,” JD McPherson; written by Page Burkum, JD McPherson & Jack Torrey
- “Heartless,” Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats; written by Nathaniel Rateliff
Honors Beyond the Awards
The Americana Honors & Awards program features six member-voted categories, recognizing excellence within the genre. In addition to these competitive categories, the ceremony also includes a series of Lifetime Achievement honors. Among these is the Legacy of Americana Award, presented in partnership with the National Museum of African American Music, which acknowledges artists who have made lasting contributions to the roots music landscape.
A Tradition of Unforgettable Moments
Since its inception more than two decades ago, the Americana Honors & Awards has become one of the most respected events in the music industry. Historic performances over the years have included Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash’s final duet, and appearances from legendary artists such as Van Morrison, Mavis Staples, Bob Weir, John Prine, Bonnie Raitt, Gregg Allman, George Strait, The Lumineers, and many more.
About the Americana Music Association
The Americana Music Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the authentic voice of American roots music around the globe. The Association organizes key events such as the Americana Honors & Awards and AMERICANAFEST, while advocating for artists and industry professionals throughout the year.
About AMERICANAFEST
AMERICANAFEST is a multi-day music celebration and conference held annually in Nashville. The event features nightly showcases at iconic venues, a three-day educational conference with panels and networking events, and daytime programming hosted by agencies, record labels, and other industry partners. The festival also serves as a fundraiser for the Americana Music Association and its Foundation.For tickets to the Americana Honors & Awards or passes to AMERICANAFEST 2025, visit www.americanamusic.org.
