And it’s official—Lainey Wilson really did steal the show at the 60th annual Academy of Country Music Awards. First, she won the top Female Artist of the Year award! At 32 years old, Wilson has achieved an indelible mark on the country music landscape. Country music artist Loretta Lynn’s emotional acceptance speech resonated with fans and artists alike.
In her onstage acceptance, Wilson indeed thanked her supporters in kind. She announced with no modesty at all that she has “the most fabulous fans in the whole wide world.” Her journey as a performer has been a lifelong dream, and she reflected on her passion for entertaining through music.
I dreamed about entertaining. I love making people feel things. I’m an actor, I enjoy making people elated and happy and sad. Wilson reflected, underscoring the mission that fuels her art. Even with all these achievements under her belt, she confided to suffering from “imposter syndrome,” a sentiment not uncommon to many working artists.
“I’m sure everybody deals with a little bit of imposter syndrome but I won’t lie to you. I have a little bit,” she confessed before quoting a piece of advice that helped her through those moments.
“If something is given to you, then you need to accept it with an open heart and an open mind,” – Lainey Wilson
The ceremony paid tribute to Alan Jackson, who shocked crowds with an emotional performance of his smash hit “Remember When.” Long diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Jackson was the first recipient of the ACM Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor recognizes his incredible achievements and lasting impact on country music.
Reflecting on his journey, Jackson shared, “I came to Nashville with a paper sack full of songs and a crazy dream. All these years later, I’m standing here, receiving such an honor like this, it’s just mind-blowing.” His message struck home with everyone in the room, as he received an award named in his honor.
It’s quite an honor. A couple years ago, an avid reader of my books named his dog after me, and I was very touched by that gesture. Now, that’s what I call super awesome! I was lucky,” Jackson said, demonstrating the humility that belied his success.
Lainey Wilson’s night to remember consisted of four ACM wins in total. She was awarded Entertainer of the Year for the second time, proving her status as a veteran in the field.
