Special Awards

“Twisters” has been chosen to receive the ACM Film Award, inspired by Tex Ritter, which recognizes an outstanding television movie, series or feature film released during the preceding calendar year which prominently features Country Music.

Eric Church and Ben Vaughn have both been chosen to each receive the ACM Icon Award, honoring the contributions of Cliffie Stone, who was known for his producing work along with his Country Music career. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group or industry leader who, throughout their career, has advanced the popularity of the genre through their contributions in multiple facets of the industry, such as songwriting, recording, production, touring, film, television, literary works, philanthropic contributions, and other goodwill efforts.  

Luke Combs has been chosen to receive the ACM International Award, inspired by Jim Reeves. The award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group or industry leader for outstanding contributions to the growth of Country Music throughout the world.

Rissi Palmer has been chosen to receive the ACM Lift Every Voice Award. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group, industry leader or affiliate/partner who plays a pivotal role in elevating underrepresented voices throughout the Country Music genre, transcending demographics and geography. The nominee for this category is proposed by the rising leaders in the Academy’s LEVel UP: Lift Every Voice professional development and enrichment program, a two-year curriculum designed to empower participants to play a pivotal role in expanding the horizons of Country Music into new audiences that transcend demographics and geography. 

Jelly Roll has been chosen to receive the ACM Lifting Lives Award, honoring the contributions of Gary Haber, known as a business manager and past president of ACM Lifting Lives. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group, or industry professional who is devoted to improving lives through the power of music, has a generosity of spirit, and is committed to serving others. It is voted on by the ACM Lifting Lives Board of Directors.

Randy Travis has been chosen as the recipient of the ACM Milestone Award, honoring the contributions of Gene Weed, who directed and produced the ACM Awards for more than 30 years. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group or industry leader for a specific, unprecedented or outstanding achievement in the field of Country Music during the preceding calendar year.

Mac McAnally has been chosen to receive the ACM Poet’s Award. This award is presented to a Country Music songwriter for outstanding and longstanding musical and/or lyrical contributions throughout their career, with special consideration given to a song or songs’ impact on the culture of Country Music.

Lori Badgett has been chosen to receive the ACM Service Award, which honors the contributions of Mae Boren Axton. This award is presented to an outstanding Country Music artist, duo/group or industry leader in recognition of years of dedication and service to the Academy of Country Music.

Cody Johnson has been chosen as the recipient of the ACM Spirit Award. This award is inspired by Merle Haggard and is presented to a singer-songwriter who is continuing the legacy of Country Music legend and 20-time ACM Award recipient Merle Haggard by following his/her own path, crafting great songs and epitomizing Merle’s spirit through genuine performances and great storytelling.