by: Bee Delores
Last Updated: May 18, 2024
8 min read
8 min read
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The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards ( ACM awards ) electrified Frisco, Texas, on May 16th, 2024. The Ford Center at The Star pulsed with an energy that crackled through the air.
A star-studded night unfolded, buzzing with anticipation for the biggest celebration in country music.
Country music stars like Randy Travis, Lainey Wilson, Blake Shelton, Kelsea Ballerini, and Miranda Lambertwere just a few of the big names who walked the red carpet, dazzling in their finest attire.
And gracing the stage as a successful host, a true country music legend herself, was Reba McEntire. Her return was a highlight in itself, promising a night of unforgettable moments and electrifying performances.
Some big names won the awards and took them home! The night was full of entertainment and laughter.
Moreover, some stars couldn’t make it, and also, there were some special tributes to the country stars who aren’t among us now. Let’s talk about it all.
The red carpet at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards was a dazzling display of stars, fashion, and excitement.
First, Reba McEntire lit up the event with her stunning sequined black pantsuit and signature smile.
Meanwhile, rising star Jelly Roll showcased his unique style in an edgy leather jacket, while the enigmatic Shaboozey opted for his stylish outwith with Louis Vuitton Boots .
Additionally, pop sensation Dua Lipa , attending alongside Chris Stapleton , wowed everyone as they wore black outfits. Furthermore, Post Malone turned heads with his cowboy hat and eccentric fashion.
Legendary Randy Travis received a warm welcome in his black suit with red and silver beautiful patterns. Moreover, Lainey Wilson charmed everyone with her stylish red pantsuit.
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani, making a stylish couple, walked the red carpet hand in hand.
Similarly, Kelsea Ballerini’s sleek gown and Miranda Lambert’s deep v-neck fashion choice in black gown added to the glamour. Avril Lavigne also surprised me with her punk-rock-meets-country look.
In addition, Dallas Wilson, Dan and Shay, Kane Brown, Jordan Davis, and the members of Old Dominion showcased their unique styles, making the event a memorable celebration of country music’s best and brightest.
These are just a few names; the country stars’ list who attended ACM awards is a long one!
Avril Lavigne, Nate Smith, Lainey Wilson, Noah Kahan, at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center at The Star on May 16, 2024 in Frisco, Texas. #AvrilLavigne #NateSmith #LaineyWilson #NoahKahan #ACMawards pic.twitter.com/qtX1La4BHK
— Avril Lavigne Tribe (@AvrilTribe) May 17, 2024
The 2024 ACM Awards were full of stars; however, some big names were missing. First, Luke Combs, who had the most nominations with eight, was a surprise no-show, likely due to conflicting stadium tour dates.
Similarly, despite six nominations, Morgan Wallen also didn’t attend, and his reasons are unclear. Additionally, Carrie Underwood, busy with projects and without nominations, was another notable absence.
Furthermore, Dolly Parton, the “Queen of Country,” skipped the event after co-hosting with Garth Brooks in 2023, possibly because of her busy schedule with a new rock album and other ventures. Similarly, Garth Brooks also didn’t attend the event!
Other stars who missed the event included Zach Bryan, Zac Brown Band, Kacey Musgraves, Luke Bryan, Brooks & Dunn, who were likely on tour, and Sara Evans, who was ill.
While some reasons are unknown, busy schedules, awards show fatigue, and personal situations likely contributed to these stars not attending the ceremony.
The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards filled joy in Texas on May 16th. The night was a star-studded celebration overflowing with exciting performances and history-making wins. Here are some unforgettable moments:
Lainey Wilson took center stage with a powerhouse performance that buzzed the audience. She won both Entertainer of the Year and Female Artist of the Year, marking a monumental occasion and cementing her place as a force in country music.
Jason Aldean surprised the crowd with a special performance, joined by country star Chris Stapleton. The energy soared even higher when pop superstar Dua Lipa appeared.
~ ACM AWARDS 2024 ~ I can't believe this actually happened!!! Thank you @ChrisStapleton for having me share the stage with you last night. Reimagining "Think I'm In Love With You" together will be up there as one of my favourite moments in my career. After some careful scheming… pic.twitter.com/yuqzgCqhJW
— DUA LIPA (@DUALIPA) May 17, 2024
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan delivered a beautiful duet that swayed the audience.
However, a bittersweet moment occurred when Post Malone performed his new song, “I Had Some Help.” Though the song was strong, Morgan Wallen’s absence was noticeably felt.
This year, the ACM Awards held on May 16th saw some new faces for the awards, while some faces were expected as they’ve been continuing to win the award for the past years as well. Following are the names!
Award Category | Winner | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Entertainer of the Year
|
Lainey Wilson | First female artist to win since 2014 |
Female Artist of the Year
|
Lainey Wilson | Double win, solidifying her status as a top country music star |
Male Artist of the Year
|
Chris Stapleton | Continues his reign as a critically acclaimed artist |
Album of the Year
|
“Higher” by Chris Stapleton | Critically acclaimed album that dominated the year |
Single of the Year
|
“Fast Car” by Luke Combs | Hit single, despite Luke Combs’ absence from the ceremony |
Song of the Year
|
“Next Thing You Know” by Jordan Davis | Highlights the power of songwriting in country music |
New Female Artist of the Year
|
Megan Moroney | Testament to rising talent in country music |
New Male Artist of the Year
|
Nate Smith | Recognizes another rising star in country music |
New Duo or Group of the Year
|
Tigirlily Gold | Marks the promising start of their career |
Duo of the Year
|
Dan + Shay | Continues their success with another win |
Group of the Year
|
Old Dominion | Extends their record-breaking streak with a seventh consecutive win |
Music Event of the Year
|
“Save Me” by Jelly Roll (with Lainey Wilson) | Resonated with the audience, earning the award for collaborative effort |
Visual Media of the Year
|
“Burn It Down” by Parker McCollum | Recognizes the creativity and impact of music videos in country music |
Songwriter of the Year
|
Jessie Jo Dillon | Celebrates Dillon’s songwriting talent |
Artist-Songwriter of the Year
|
Chris Stapleton | Further emphasizes Stapleton’s multifaceted talents |
While the night was full of laughter and celebrations, but it also remembered those who have gone and left a great impact in the country genre.
The 2024 ACM Awards featured special tributes that added depth and emotion to the night. One deep moment was the heartfelt tribute to Toby Keith , a country music legend who had passed away earlier that year.
Jason Aldean, a close friend of Keith, delivered an emotional performance of Keith’s hit song “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” touching the audience’s hearts and Keith’s family.
But before this performance, Blake Shelton delivered a heart-touching speech to remember his friend saying:
“As a friend, a fan, and a fellow Okie, I feel heartbroken and yet honored to be standing here tonight to remember a man who became one of the biggest country music stars of all time: the late, great, Toby Keith”.
Another unexpected yet remarkable tribute occurred when Reba McEntire and Post Malone honored the late Dickey Betts, a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band.
Post Malone surprised everyone with the bluesy sound of “Ramblin’ Man.” Aside from being the host, McEntire joined Post Malone with her seasoned voice, adding a country twang that perfectly complemented Malone’s style.
Their collaboration bridged generations and showcased the enduring legacy of country music, highlighting its ability to inspire artists across genres.
These tributes at the ACM Awards 2024 demonstrated the power of music to unite and pay homage to legends while pushing boundaries and fostering collaboration.
Check out the Tribute of Jason Aldean to Toby Keith!
Lover of hiking, biking, horror movies, cats and camping. Writer at Wide Open Country, Holler and Nashville Gab.
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