The Academy of Country Music has recently handed out an early award ahead of the ceremony on May 8. Rising country star Zach Top received the award for New Male Artist of the Year, and ACM announced the recognition with a post on Instagram.
Videos by American Songwriter
“JUST IN: The ACM New Male Artist of the Year for the 60th #ACMawards goes to … Zach Top!” the caption reads on the organization’s post. “We can’t wait to celebrate #ACM60 LIVE Thursday, May 8.”
The social media announcement is paired with a photo of Top holding his new trophy. Fans in the comments were ecstatic, sharing celebratory emojis and words of encouragement. “Much deserved!” one fan wrote. Another had some criticism for the ACM, writing, “I’m so mad they didn’t hand it to you at the televised programme!”
Fellow country artists like sister duo Tigirlily Gold, Drake Milligan, and Sierra Hull also shared their congratulations. Additionally, one commenter played on the running joke that country legend Alan Jackson is Zach Top’s dad. “His father Alan will be so proud,” they wrote.
Besides Zach Top, Who Else is Nominated for ACM Awards This Year?
We now know that Zach Top is a bonafide winner, but who else has a chance of earning a coveted ACM Award? With the ceremony about two weeks away, country fans are chomping at the bit to see Reba McEntire return as host, along with the numerous performers who will be taking the stage. As for the awards themselves, here’s who could be going home with a trophy this year.
Right off the bat, there are a handful of artists who are nominated for an ACM Award for the first time. Ella Langley leads the pack with eight nominations. Gavin Adcock, Noah Kahan, Dasha, Jessie Murph, Muscadine Bloodline, Shaboozey, The Red Clay Strays, Treaty Oak Revival, and Tucker Wetmore are also first-time nominees.
Cody Johnson and Morgan Wallen each have seven nominations, leading the male artists in sheer number potential awards. Entertainer of the Year involves the usual suspects: Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, and Jelly Roll.
Lainey Wilson is the reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year, but with current CMA Entertainer of the Year Morgan Wallen in the mix, she might have some competition. For the full list of nominations, we’ve got you covered, and make sure to tune in on May 8 at 8ET on Prime Video.
Featured Image by Danielle Del Valle/Getty Images
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.