Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
Dolly Parton is set to receive another deeply meaningful honor when she accepts the ACM Poet’s Award during the 19th annual ACM Honors in Nashville on August 19. Although the country music icon is expected to accept the award through a special video message, her presence will be felt throughout the evening as artists and fans celebrate a songwriting legacy that has influenced generations. The Poet’s Award recognizes extraordinary and lasting contributions to country music through the power of words and melody, making Parton an especially fitting recipient. Songs such as “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You” have become more than commercial hits; they are emotional landmarks that continue to connect with listeners around the world.
The ceremony will take place at The Pinnacle in Nashville, with Carly Pearce returning as host for the sixth consecutive year. This time, she will be joined by Parker McCollum, who is stepping into the co-hosting role for the first time. Together, the two stars will guide an evening designed to honor not only famous performers, but also songwriters, musicians, executives, venues, and other influential figures whose work has helped country music grow.
The announced performance lineup brings together established stars, rising voices, and artists representing several different sides of modern country music. Avery Anna, Big Kenny, Carly Pearce, Carter Faith, Dierks Bentley, Dylan Scott, Gabriella Rose, Gavin Adcock, Kaitlin Butts, Mark Collie, Margo Price, Megan Moroney, Parker McCollum, and Trisha Yearwood are all scheduled to appear onstage. Their performances are expected to include special tributes, unique collaborations, and interpretations of songs connected to the evening’s honorees. Zach John King will also take part by presenting the ACM Studio Recording and Industry Awards, while legendary Country Music Hall of Fame member Brenda Lee is scheduled to make a special guest appearance.
Beyond Parton’s tribute, the 19th ACM Honors will recognize a wide range of important contributors. Brett James and The Carter Family will receive ACM Poet’s Awards, while Bill Anderson and Mike Curb will be honored with ACM Icon Awards. Kacey Musgraves will receive the ACM Spirit Award, Eric Church will be presented with the ACM Lifting Lives Award, and Leslie Fram will receive the ACM Lift Every Voice Award. Other honorees include C2C: Country to Country, the television series “Landman,” Scott Zolke, Artist-Songwriter of the Year Ella Langley, and Songwriter of the Year Jessie Jo Dillon.
Still, Dolly Parton’s moment is likely to be one of the night’s emotional highlights. For decades, she has written with rare honesty about love, poverty, sacrifice, ambition, heartbreak, faith, and home. Her songs often sound simple at first, but their emotional truth gives them remarkable staying power. By honoring Parton with the Poet’s Award, the Academy of Country Music is celebrating not only a legendary entertainer, but also one of America’s most gifted storytellers. The August 19 ceremony promises to be a powerful reminder that country music’s greatest strength has always been its ability to turn real life into unforgettable songs. The celebration will connect country music’s past, present, and future in one room. Veteran artists will stand beside emerging performers, while the people who create songs behind the scenes receive overdue recognition. For audiences, it will be both an awards ceremony and a tribute to the stories that define the genre.