Keith Urban Honored with Triple Crown Award in Unforgettable ACM Tribute
In a dazzling celebration of country music’s brightest stars, the 60th annual ACM Awards delivered a night to remember — and at the heart of it all was a moving tribute to one of the genre’s most enduring talents, Keith Urban.
Held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, the ceremony was hosted by the legendary Reba McEntire and featured a spectacular lineup of performances honoring the Academy of Country Music’s rich 60-year history. But the emotional high point of the evening belonged to Urban, who received the coveted Triple Crown Award, a rare distinction earned only by artists who’ve won New Artist of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Entertainer of the Year.
Urban’s journey to Triple Crown status is a testament to his staying power in the ever-evolving country music scene. He was named New Artist of the Year all the way back in 2001, went on to win Male Vocalist of the Year in both 2005 and 2006, and clinched Entertainer of the Year in 2019. That 18-year span from first win to final qualification makes his Triple Crown victory not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of perseverance and enduring artistry.
This marks the first time the ACM Triple Crown honor has been awarded during a live broadcast since Carrie Underwood received hers in 2010 — and the show pulled out all the stops to make it unforgettable.
In a fitting homage, a trio of today’s top country stars delivered a heartfelt performance of Urban’s greatest hits. Rising star Megan Moroney brought vulnerability and power to her cover of “Stupid Boy,” while Chris Stapleton delivered a soulful rendition of “Blue Ain’t Your Color” that brought the crowd to their feet. Then Brothers Osborne turned up the energy with a rousing version of Urban’s early hit, “Where the Blacktop Ends.”
From their seats in the audience, Urban and his wife, Nicole Kidman, danced and cheered with unfiltered joy. But the night wasn’t done yet — during the finale, Keith himself jumped on stage, guitar in hand, to jam with Brothers Osborne, bringing the tribute full circle with his signature charisma and musicianship.
As the final notes rang out, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Keith Urban was officially presented with the Triple Crown Award, greeted by thunderous applause and a standing ovation. His heartfelt acceptance speech, full of gratitude and reflection, capped off a milestone night that cemented his legacy as one of country music’s most beloved and respected icons.
