13 Memorable ACM Awards Collaborations From Years Past [LIST]
on Mar 06, 2024
For years, the ACM Awards have been a platform for shining a spotlight on the brightest stars in country music. It’s where these artists get to display their talents on stage, often through unforgettable duets. These partnerships, ranging from classic duets to surprising collaborations, have become cherished moments in the genre’s history. In this list, we explore 13 standout ACM Awards collaborations that are still remembered years later.
1. Stevie Nicks and Lady A Perform “Golden” and “Rhiannon” (2014)
In 2014, Stevie Nicks collaborated with the four-time ACM vocal group of the year winner, Lady A, to deliver a memorable performance intertwining their hit song “Golden” with the timeless Fleetwood Mac classic “Rhiannon” at the 50th annual ACM Awards.
2. Dolly Parton & Katy Perry Sing Dolly’s Biggest Hits (2016)
At the 2016 Academy of Country Music Awards, Katy Perry joined forces with the iconic Dolly Parton for an unforgettable duet, treating the audience to renditions of Dolly’s classics including “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “9 to 5.”
3. Carrie Underwood & Steven Tyler Perform “Undo It & Walk This Way” (2011)
In 2011, Carrie Underwood and Steven Tyler created a blend of rock and roll energy and country twang into the ACM Awards stage. They delivered a memorable performance that featured their collaboration on the Aerosmith classic “Walk This Way” and Underwood’s own hit, “Undo It.”
4. Faith Hill & Tim McGraw Sing “It’s Your Love (1997)
In 1997, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw graced the ACM stage with their undeniable chemistry, captivating the audience with their passionate rendition of their love anthem “It’s Your Love.”
5. Brad Paisley & John Mayer Perform “Beat This Summer” (2013)
At the 2013 ACM Awards, John Mayer teamed up with Brad Paisley for a duet on “Beat This Summer.” Their performance was proof of the duo’s incredible guitar skills, with Mayer and Paisley trading vocals and guitar riffs that left the audience in awe.
6. Ed Sheeran “Life Goes On” Ft. Luke Combs (2023)
During the 58th annual ACM Awards, Ed Sheeran made his debut on the ACM stage in an exciting collaboration with country sensation Luke Combs. Together, they performed Sheeran’s track “Life Goes On,” from his album “- (Subtract).” Following the live performance, the pair released a studio version of their collaboration.
7. George Strait & Miranda Lambert Sing “Run” (2019)
At the 54th Academy of Country Music Awards, country music icon George Strait invited fellow artist Miranda Lambert, who holds an impressive record of 37 ACM Award wins, to join him for a rendition of his timeless hit “Run.” Together, they delivered a moving performance that paid tribute to the rich tradition of country music.
8. Keith Urban & P!nk Perform “One Too Many” – Two Room Duet (2020)
At the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards in 2020, Keith Urban and P!nk debuted their duet “One Too Many” with a unique twist. Despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, they managed to deliver a seamless performance, each from their separate locations. Their innovative approach not only highlighted their talent but also made their performance a memorable moment in ACM history, demonstrating their creativity and ability to adapt as a performer.
9. Florida Georgia Line & Backstreet Boys Sing “God, Your Mama and Me” (2017)
In 2017, a collaboration between Florida Georgia Line and The Backstreet Boys stole the show at the ACM Awards, exciting the entire crowd. The country duo joined forces with the boy band for a performance of their hit single “God, Your Mama, and Me.” Following this song, the energy soared even more as they seamlessly transitioned into singing The Backstreet Boys’ 1997 smash hit, “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).”
10. Kelly Clarkson & Reba Sing “Because Of You” (2007)
In an unforgettable ACM Awards performance, country icon Reba McEntire teamed up with superstar Kelly Clarkson in 2007. The duo took the stage together for a powerful duet, performing Clarkson’s emotional ballad, “Because of You.”
11. Ray Charles & George Jones Perform “We Didn’t See A Thing” (1984)
In a historic moment at the 20th annual ACM Awards in 1984, music legends Ray Charles and George Jones created a timeless and unforgettable duet that will forever be praised in the world of country music. The duo shared the stage and performed a track from Charles’ album Friendship, leaving fans with a performance that will be treasured for many years to come.
12. Kelsea Ballerini Sings “Peter Pan” Ft. Nick Jonas (2016)
In 2016, Kelsea Ballerini and Nick Jonas took the stage to collaborate on Ballerini’s song “Peter Pan.” While the performance initially generated excitement, it later became infamous due to a lackluster response from fans. Jonas later revealed that he had forgotten his guitar notes during the duet, contributing to the less-than-ideal feedback for the collaboration. Despite the setback, the incident served as a reminder that even seasoned performers can face unexpected challenges during live performances.
13. Jelly Roll & Lainey Wilson Perform “Save Me” (2023)
During the 2023 ACM Awards, Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson surprised the audience with their powerful duet “Save Me.” Despite being relatively new to the country music scene, the duo wowed the audience, proving their undeniable talent and leaving viewers eager for more from these rising stars in country music.
