Introduction
On the evening of May 8th, the Academy of Country Music (ACM) celebrated a historic milestone—their 60th annual awards show. As the longest-running event dedicated to country music, the ACM Awards continue to spotlight the genre’s finest artists, honoring the stories, songs, and voices that define country music.
This year’s celebration was held at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas. Legendary country star and 16-time ACM Award winner Reba McEntire took on hosting duties, bringing her signature charm to the night. The event, in collaboration with Amazon, was streamed live so fans across the globe could join in the celebration.
Unforgettable Performances Lit Up the Stage
From start to finish, the show delivered powerful moments. It opened with an electrifying 12-minute medley titled “Songs of the Decades,” a tribute to country music’s enduring legacy. The medley featured stunning performances by Reba McEntire, Wynonna Judd, Dan + Shay, LeAnn Rimes, Clint Black, and Sugarland—each bringing a unique flavor that celebrated the genre’s evolution.
Single of the Year Goes to Ella Langley and Riley Green
One of the night’s most anticipated awards was Single of the Year, which honors both the performing artist(s) and the producer(s) behind the track. This year, the nominees included:
- Shaboozey – “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
- Cody Johnson – “Dirt Cheap”
- Post Malone and Morgan Wallen – “I Had Some Help”
- Chris Stapleton – “White Horse”
- Ella Langley and Riley Green – “you look like you love me”
Reba McEntire took the stage once again to share the big news: Ella Langley and Riley Green’s duet “you look like you love me” had taken home the award!
A Milestone Moment for Ella Langley and Riley Green
Released in June 2024, “you look like you love me” quickly became a breakout hit. It marked Ella Langley’s very first No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart, and the second for Riley Green.
Fresh off her performance of “If It Weren’t For The Wind,” Ella was still catching her breath when she took the mic to accept the award. With heartfelt honesty, she shared,
“I’m still out of breath… and I feel like I kind of have been since this song came out.”
She went on to reflect on the journey behind the track, saying it taught her an important lesson about songwriting:
“It taught me to not care so much and to write what you love.”
Riley Green, visibly proud, added:
“I’m so proud of Ella and how she represents the state of Alabama with me.”
Congratulations to the Winners
This win is not just a professional milestone—it’s a heartfelt recognition of two artists creating music that connects deeply with fans. Congratulations to Ella Langley, Riley Green, and everyone involved in bringing this song to life.
Be sure to watch their full acceptance speech and performance highlights from the 2025 ACM Awards.
We’ve got a winner, y’all 🤠💐 The ACM Single of the Year Award – presented by @realtordotcom – at the 60th #ACMawards goes to @EllaLangleyMsic and @RileyGreenMusic! 🎶 pic.twitter.com/9CgsbtCwie
— ACM Awards (@ACMawards) May 9, 2025