Last night’s Academy of Country Music Awards show gave country fans exactly what they would want and expect—big stars, big hair, and plenty of good old southern hospitality. The 43rd annual ACM Awards, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, saw some surprises and congratulated a few new faces, but primarily honored performers whose boots have seen several years’ wear.
Last night’s Academy of Country Music Awards show gave country fans exactly what they would want and expect—big stars, big hair, and plenty of good old southern hospitality. The 43rd annual ACM Awards, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, saw some surprises and congratulated a few new faces, but primarily honored performers whose boots have seen several years’ wear.
One such veteran to win big was Kenny Chesney, who took home Entertainer of the Year for the fourth year in a row. If four consecutive wins is not an impressive enough feat on its own, this year’s award was entirely fan-decided, as opposed to previously being academy-selected. ACM alums Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood also took home top honors, respectively earning Male Vocalist of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year. Newcomers to this year’s show included Taylor Swift, who graciously accepted New Female Vocalist of the Year with a both a nod to fellow artist Kellie Pickler and a heartfelt thank you to her mother, and Lady Antebellum, who took home New Duo or Vocal Group of the Year. Miranda Lambert’s Album of the Year award for Crazy Ex-Girlfriend may have surprised only her (she “didn’t feel right taking [the award]” from superstar Kenny Chesney), as her album has sold a respectable 408,000 copies in the United States since its release.
The night also showcased performances by Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Miranda Lambert, Toby Keith, and others. A comprehensive list of nominees and winners can be found on the Academy’s website, here.