Country music icon Vince Gill is adding one more accolade to his storied career. The Country Music Association announced that Gill will receive the 2025 Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s CMA Awards. He’ll accept the honor during the live telecast on Nov. 19 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, where a star-studded tribute performance will celebrate his legacy.
The award recognizes an artist who has attained the highest level of recognition in country music — and Gill certainly qualifies. He’s a Country Music Hall of Famer with 18 CMA Awards and 22 Grammy wins to his name, famous for classics like “When I Call Your Name.” “Vince embodies the very best of what country music stands for,” CMA CEO Sarah Trahern said in a statement, praising him as “a true trailblazer” who continues to inspire the genre. Previous recipients of the honor include legends such as Dolly Parton and George Strait.
At the ceremony, Gill will be saluted with a special tribute performance before he accepts the trophy. Country star Lainey Wilson is hosting the 59th annual CMA Awards, which airs live on ABC. For Vince Gill, who’s been performing for over 50 years, this lifetime achievement honor is a fitting tribute to a career that has touched millions of fans.
