The Academy of Country Music is gearing up to salute some of the genre’s brightest stars and unsung heroes at the 18th ACM Honors on August 20, 2025. The special event – held at Nashville’s new venue The Pinnacle – will feature live tributes to a slate of honorees that includes chart-topping artists Jelly Roll, Eric Church, Cody Johnson, trailblazing singer Rissi Palmer, industry titan Ben Vaughn, and others. These figures have been chosen as Special Award recipients for their outstanding contributions over the past year and beyond.
Jelly Roll will receive the ACM Lifting Lives Award for his philanthropy, after raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for at-risk youth and even testifying to Congress on mental health and addiction issues. Eric Church and the late Ben Vaughn will each be honored with the prestigious ACM Icon Award, recognizing careers that have profoundly advanced country music’s popularity and impact. Cody Johnson is set to receive the ACM Spirit Award, given to an artist exemplifying Merle Haggard’s legacy of genuine storytelling – a nod to Johnson’s devotion to traditional country values. Meanwhile, Rissi Palmer will be awarded the ACM Lift Every Voice Award for her trailblazing efforts in elevating underrepresented voices in country music. Other honorees include Luke Combs (ACM International Award), Mac McAnally (Poet’s Award), Lori Badgett (Service Award), Randy Travis (Milestone Award), and even the hit film Twisters (Film Award), making for an eclectic and deserving group.
“This year’s ACM Special Awards honorees each have played an essential role in country music’s success,” said Kerri Edwards, chair of the ACM Special Awards Committee, in a statement. “From legendary artists to incredible songwriters and executives, we are so excited to celebrate these well-deserved recipients.” Fans can expect an unforgettable evening of live performances and heartfelt speeches as Nashville’s community comes together to pay tribute. The ACM Honors show has become a beloved tradition, and with names like Church, Jelly Roll and Palmer in the mix, the 2025 edition promises to be a night full of passion, legacy and perhaps a few emotional surprises along the way.
