What Is the ACM’s Triple Crown Award?
The Academy of Country Music (ACM)’s Triple Crown Award is one of the most prestigious honors in the genre — a rare distinction that celebrates an artist’s sustained excellence across every major tier of their career.
How Do You Win the Triple Crown?
To earn the Triple Crown, an artist must win all three of the following ACM Awards in their respective categories:
New Artist of the Year (New Male, New Female, or New Duo/Group)
Artist of the Year (Male, Female, Duo, or Group)
Entertainer of the Year
It’s not just about chart-topping hits — it’s a recognition of career progression, industry impact, and connection with fans over time.
Recent and Notable Recipients
Only a select few artists have achieved this milestone, making it one of country music’s elite clubs. Past honorees include:
Merle Haggard
Kenny Chesney
Brooks & Dunn
Carrie Underwood
Miranda Lambert
Chris Stapleton
Jason Aldean
Barbara Mandrell
Mickey Gilley
Lainey Wilson (2024 recipient)
Keith Urban Finally Receives His Triple Crown
After winning Entertainer of the Year in 2019, Keith Urban officially qualified for the Triple Crown — but never received the physical award… until now.
At the 60th ACM Awards on May 8, 2025, Urban was formally presented with the Triple Crown live onstage, making him the first artist to receive it during the televised show since Carrie Underwood in 2010.
A Tribute Fit for a Legend
Before his acceptance, Urban was honored with a musical tribute by Chris Stapleton, Megan Moroney, and Brothers Osborne, who performed a medley of his career-defining hits.
A Grateful, Humble Acceptance
During his brief but moving speech, Urban:
Thanked the tribute performers
Expressed love for his wife Nicole Kidman: “I love you, baby girl.”
Gave a shoutout to daughters Sunday and Faith
Praised his team: “They work insanely hard.”
Closed with heartfelt gratitude to his fans, calling them the reason behind it all
Congratulations to Keith Urban — the newest official member of the ACM Triple Crown club.
His journey proves that longevity, artistry, and authenticity still shine brightest in country music.
👑 Top New Male Vocalist (2001)
👑 Male Vocalist of the Year (2005 & 2006)
👑 Entertainer of the Year (2019) @KeithUrban is an #ACMawards Triple Crown Award recipient! pic.twitter.com/SmUnRQcbwy— ACM Awards (@ACMawards) May 9, 2025
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