ACM Awards 2025: Jelly Roll Smokes a Joint Backstage, Rascal Flatts and Backstreet Boys Join Forces and More Highlights
The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards captured the hearts of country music fans on May 8, 2025. This prestigious event took place at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, and was hosted by the ever-charismatic Reba McEntire. Country music’s crème de la crème gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements, electrifying performances, and unique moments that made this occasion unforgettable.
Major Winners and Highlights
As expected, the award ceremony recognized some of the brightest stars in country music. Lainey Wilson emerged as a major winner, taking home the coveted Album of the Year for her remarkable project “Whirlwind.” Chris Stapleton was celebrated as the Male Artist of the Year, showcasing his undeniable talent and influence in the genre.
- Keith Urban received the prestigious ACM Triple Crown Award, a testament to his incredible contributions and successes throughout his career.
- Ella Langley and Riley Green also had a fantastic night, securing accolades that underscored their rising popularity and impact in country music.
Noteworthy Performances
One of the standout moments of the evening included a powerful collaboration between the legendary Rascal Flatts and the iconic Backstreet Boys. The duo opened with the emotional hit “What Hurts the Most” and closed with the upbeat anthem “Life Is a Highway,” leaving the audience in awe of their harmonies and stage presence.
Adding to the excitement, Reba McEntire shared the stage with Lainey Wilson and Miranda Lambert, unveiling their new empowering collaboration titled “Trailblazer.” This performance celebrated the strength and achievements of women in country music, receiving thunderous applause from the audience.
Meanwhile, Jelly Roll created quite a buzz backstage, where he was seen engaging in some light-hearted antics, notably smoking a joint alongside fellow artist ERNEST. This backstory brought an amusing yet relatable touch to the evening’s glamorous vibe.
Special Moments and Visuals
Among the many moving moments of the ACM Awards, Alan Jackson was honored with the Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award. His heartfelt speech resonated with attendees, highlighting his significant contributions to the evolution of country music over the decades.
Another performance that stole the show was the high-energy rendition of “Kerosene,” performed by Miranda Lambert and Ella Langley, in celebration of the iconic song’s 20th anniversary. Their chemistry and talent filled the arena with excitement, making it one of the evening’s highlights.
Red Carpet Arrivals
The red carpet moments offered a glimpse into the glitz and glamour surrounding the ACM Awards. Among the most talked-about couples were Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman, who lent a touch of elegance to the evening as they arrived hand-in-hand.
- Cody Johnson and his wife made headlines with their exciting announcement that they were expecting a baby boy, showcasing their adorable chemistry on the red carpet.
- Gabby Barrett, who walked solo as her husband celebrated a graduation, brought her individual charm to the event.
- Jessie Murph added a quirky twist by bringing a miniature pig as her date, capturing the attention of onlookers and photographers alike.
The event culminated in a vibrant night filled with not just awards, but also emotion, talent, and a deep celebration of the rich culture within country music. For those who want a complete list of winners and an in-depth recap of all performances, detailed coverage is readily available online. Don’t miss out on the excitement of country music’s top stars and their unforgettable night at the ACM Awards 2025!
