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The Academy of Country Music revealed the first round of performers for the 18th ACM Honors on Wednesday (July 30).
Luke Bryan, Russell Dickerson, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild, Amy Grant, Ashley McBryde, and Carly Pearce are among the first performers confirmed for the star-studded show, hailed the “Country Music Industry’s favorite night.” Pearce is also returning to host the event for her fifth consecutive year, and this time, Dickerson will make his ACM Honors hosting debut alongside her, the Academy of Country Music announced on Wednesday. The Academy previously confirmed the show will switch venues to take place at “Nashville’s newest cutting-edge venue,” The Pinnacle.
“I’m excited to return as host of ACM Honors for the fifth year in a row,” Pearce said in a statement. “This night holds a special place in my heart because it shines a light on the songwriters, musicians, and industry voices who make what we do possible. It’s truly one of my favorite nights of the year. It will be such a full circle moment to co-host with one of my oldest friends in Nashville, Russell Dickerson.”
Dickerson said “it’s a real honor to be hosting ACM Honors for the first time—especially at The Pinnacle, in the heart of Nashville. This night is all about giving credit to the folks who keep the wheels turning behind the scenes, and I’m proud to be part of it. Getting to team up with Carly and celebrate the industry we love so much is going to be one for the books.”
Honorees include Lori Badgett, Eric Church, Luke Combs, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Mac McAnally, Rissi Palmer, Randy Travis, “Twisters,” Ben Vaughn, and Lainey Wilson, the Academy of Country Music announced.
“This year’s ACM Special Awards honorees each have played an essential role in Country Music’s success,” said Kerri Edwards, Chair of the ACM Special Awards committee, in a press release issued earlier this month. “From some of Country Music’s legendary artists to the incredible songwriters and powerhouse executives, we are so excited to celebrate these well-deserved recipients next month at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Congratulations to all the honorees.”
Additional performers and presenters will be announced at a later date. The ACM Honors will take place on Wednesday, August 20.