The 61st ACM Awards 2026 are just around the corner, and country music fans have every reason to mark their calendars. Airing live on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. PT exclusively on Prime Video, this year’s ceremony promises to be one of the most electrifying nights in the genre’s history. Hosting duties fall to none other than the legendary Shania Twain, who brings her iconic energy and decades of country royalty to the stage. With a stacked performer lineup already announced, the 61st ACM Awards 2026 are shaping up to be unmissable.
Full Performer Lineup for the 61st ACM Awards 2026
The Academy of Country Music has pulled out all the stops this year, stacking the stage with a mix of reigning superstars and rising voices. Blake Shelton returns to the ACM stage in a big way, joining heavy-hitters Kane Brown, Thomas Rhett, and Dan + Shay for what promises to be an unforgettable night of live country music. Female powerhouses Ella Langley, Avery Anna, and Carter Faith bring fresh energy to the lineup, while fan favorites Jordan Davis, Tucker Wetmore, and Zach Top round out an incredible roster. The Red Clay Strays also make a statement appearance, representing the grittier, roots-driven side of the genre that fans have been clamoring for.
Shania Twain Hosts: Why This Is a Big Deal
Shania Twain hosting the 61st ACM Awards 2026 is more than a booking — it’s a full-circle moment. One of country music’s best-selling artists of all time, Twain brings decades of chart-topping history and an undeniable stage presence to the hosting chair. Her return to a major country awards stage signals the kind of celebratory, inclusive energy the ACMs aim to deliver. Expect sharp wit, stunning performances, and maybe a surprise or two from the woman who proved to the world that country music has no limits.
Frequently Asked: When and Where Can You Watch the 61st ACM Awards 2026?
The 61st ACM Awards 2026 will stream live globally on Prime Video on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. PT. A Prime Video subscription is required to watch. The ceremony originates from a venue in the greater Nashville, Tennessee area, continuing the ACMs’ tradition of celebrating country music at its heartland home.
Confirmed Performers at a Glance
- Blake Shelton — country icon and multi-ACM winner returning to the stage
- Kane Brown — one of the genre’s most versatile and beloved young stars
- Thomas Rhett — a consistent ACM fan favorite with multiple hits in rotation
- Dan + Shay — the duo brings their signature harmonies back to country’s biggest night
- Ella Langley — riding high on her breakout momentum in 2026
- Avery Anna — a rising voice with a passionate fanbase tuning in
- Carter Faith — bringing authenticity and raw talent to the ACM stage
- Jordan Davis — consistent hitmaker with feel-good country anthems
- Tucker Wetmore — a new voice gaining serious traction in the genre
- Zach Top — representing the neo-traditional movement front and center
- The Red Clay Strays — bringing grit, soul, and Southern rock energy
What the 61st ACM Awards Mean for Country Music in 2026
Beyond the performances and trophies, the 61st ACM Awards 2026 serve as a snapshot of where country music stands right now — and the picture is vibrant. From neo-traditional artists like Zach Top carrying the flame of classic country to crossover stars expanding the genre’s audience, this ceremony reflects a genre that’s both honoring its roots and boldly moving forward. Stephen Wilson Jr. recently won his first ACM Award for Visual Media of the Year for his video “Cuckoo,” underscoring the depth of talent making waves this year.
Don’t miss a single moment of the 61st ACM Awards 2026 when they air live May 17 on Prime Video — this is the kind of night that reminds you why country music has the most passionate fans on the planet. Keep following Sunset Country Fest for all the highlights, winners, and biggest moments from country music’s most celebrated night of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are country music award nominees selected?
Nominees are selected by industry professionals or recording academy members depending on the specific award. Eligibility is based on music released within the qualifying calendar year.
Where can I watch the awards show live?
Major country awards shows air on major broadcast networks and are also available for streaming. Check the official show website for broadcast schedules and streaming options.
Can fans vote for their favorite artists?
Some awards categories are fan-voted. Check the official awards show website for voting eligibility, instructions, and deadlines during the voting period.