At the 60th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, held on May 8, 2025, at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, country music legend Alan Jackson was honoured with the first-ever Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award. The award, presented by host Reba McEntire, recognises artists who have achieved national and international prominence through concert performances, philanthropy, record sales, streaming numbers, and public representation. Jackson's enduring impact on the genre made him a fitting inaugural recipient.
During the ceremony, Jackson delivered an emotional performance of his 2003 hit ‘Remember When,' receiving a standing ovation from the audience. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, he reflected on his journey from arriving in Nashville with “a paper sack full of songs and a crazy dream” to becoming a celebrated figure in country music. He expressed gratitude to his fans, colleagues, and especially his wife, Denise, whom he described as his “best friend since I was 17 years old.”
Jackson's illustrious career spans over three decades, with more than 75 million records sold worldwide and 66 songs appearing on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. His accolades include two Grammy Awards, 16 Country Music Association Awards, and 17 ACM Awards. In 2017, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The 2025 ACM Awards celebrated numerous artists, with Lainey Wilson earning four major awards, including Entertainer of the Year and Female Artist of the Year. Ella Langley led the night with five awards, including New Female Artist of the Year. The event featured performances by Reba McEntire, Clint Black, Wynonna Judd, LeAnn Rimes, Little Big Town, and Dan + Shay, among others.
Jackson's recognition with the eponymous Lifetime Achievement Award underscores his significant contributions to country music and his influence on future generations of artists.
