CMT to Air Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition Featuring Unforgettable Performances

CMT HOT 20: ACM HONORS EDITION

Country music fans will soon experience one of the industry’s most heartfelt celebrations from the comfort of their homes. CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition premieres tomorrow, Saturday, Sept. 27, on CMT. Hosted by Cody Alan and Carissa Culiner, the three-hour special highlights the heart and soul of the Academy of Country Music’s annual ACM Honors.

The event, filmed Aug. 20 at a sold-out show at The Pinnacle in Nashville, showcases never-before-seen backstage moments, emotional tributes, and unforgettable collaborations that honor some of country music’s most influential figures.

Cody Johnson - ACM Honors

Standout Performances

The broadcast will feature powerful performances of both classic and modern country songs, including:

  • “Jackson” (Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash) – Carly Pearce and Russell Dickerson
  • “Lies, Lies, Lies” (Morgan Wallen) – Karen Fairchild and Carter Faith
  • “Three Wooden Crosses” (Randy Travis) – Jamey Johnson
  • “Already Had It” (Twisters: The Album) – Tucker Wetmore
  • “Homeboy” (Eric Church) – HARDY
  • Luke Combs medley – Ashley McBryde
  • “Til You Can’t” (Cody Johnson) – Luke Bryan
Eric Church - ACM Honors
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – AUGUST 20: Eric Church accepts the ACM Icon Award onstage during the 18th Academy Of Country Music Honors at The Pinnacle on August 20, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ACM)

Honorees and Recognitions

The special honors artists and industry leaders whose impact continues to shape country music, including Eric Church, Luke Combs, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Mac McAnally, Rissi Palmer, Randy Travis, Twisters, and Lainey Wilson.

Additionally, winners of the Industry Awards and Studio Recording Awards from the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards will be recognized.

“ACM Honors is one of the most unforgettable nights in Country Music,” said Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. “On Sept. 27, fans everywhere get a front-row seat to once-in-a-lifetime performances, heartfelt tributes, and powerful stories that celebrate the legends and trailblazers of our genre. This celebration captures the heart of our community. Fans will be talking about it long after the night is over.”

Randy Travis - ACM Honors

About the Academy of Country Music

The Academy of Country Music, founded in 1964, has grown into one of the most influential organizations in the genre. Based in Nashville with over 5,000 members worldwide, the ACM advocates for artists, fans, and industry professionals while supporting charitable initiatives through ACM Lifting Lives.

The Academy continues to expand its reach through landmark events like the 60th ACM Awards, hosted by Reba McEntire, and remains dedicated to creating a more inclusive future for the genre through programs such as ACM Level Up.

For more information, visit ACMcountry.com.

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