Randy Travis Announces Surprising Winner for ACM Song of the Year

Academy of Country Music

The 2024 ACM Awards was a star-studded gathering that delivered memorable performances and exciting wins

The 59th Annual ACM Awards took over the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas tonight (May 16). Both seasoned country artists and new up-and-comers joined together to celebrate achievements in country music over the last year.

The event, nicknamed “Country’s Party of the Year,” was hosted by 16-time ACM Award winner Reba McEntire. It was her impressive 17th time hosting the show, and her 11th time as a solo host.

Five powerful songs were nominated to be named the ACM Song of the Year

The five songs highlighted in the category of ACM Song of the Year exemplify the ability of music to provide inspiration, comfort, motivation, and more. This award is presented to the songwriter(s), publisher(s), and artist(s) of the song.

“Fast Car” by Luke Combs has become a force to be reckoned with. The song was originally released by Tracy Chapman in 1988 and was a hit in its own right, but it found a resurgence in popularity when Luke Combs released his rendition.

Described as a “song about triumph,” Lainey Wilson’s “Heart Like A Truck” showcases powerful lyrics and a signature style for which Lainey has become known. This is the second year that the fan-favorite song has been nominated for an ACM Award.

“Next Thing You Know” by Jordan Davis tells a touching story of how quickly life moves forward. It was included in Jordan Davis’ second studio album Bluebird and

ACM New Female Artist of the Year Megan Moroney went viral with her song “Tennessee Orange” when it was released at the end of 2022. It was her debut single and became her first No. 1 hit. The song gained popularity online while Moroney was still an independent artist, leading to her signing her first record deal.

“The Painter” is the lead single from Cody Johnson’s third major studio album, Leather. It is the ultimate love song written by Johnson for his wife, Brandi, whom he has been married to since 2008.

Academy of Country Music

The ACM Award for Song of the Year goes to… “Next Thing You Know” by Jordan Davis!

Clay Walker and 11-time ACM Award winner Randy Travis presented the Song of the Year award to Jordan Davis. Davis, visibly shocked, thanked the fans for supporting the song and expressed gratitude to the songwriting community for inspiring him to be a better artist and songwriter.

This is Jordan Davis’ first ACM Award win, an impressive feat given the talent in the category. Congrats, Jordan Davis!

Watch the official music video for “Next Thing You Know,” the new ACM Song of the Year below!