Luke Bryan risked his voice onstage with a shocking live performance of Cody Johnson’s hit before handing him the ACM Spirit Award in front of a stunned Nashville crowd.

Cody Johnson Receives ACM Spirit Award at 2025 ACM Honors, Honored by Luke Bryan Tribute

Cody Johnson was celebrated in a big way at the 18th annual ACM Honors on Wednesday night in Nashville, where he was presented with the ACM Spirit Award—a recognition inspired by Merle Haggard that honors artists who forge their own path in country music with authenticity and grit.

Before Johnson took the stage, his friend and golf buddy Luke Bryan performed Johnson’s chart-topping hit “’Til You Can’t.” The crowd roared to its feet as Bryan delivered the powerful ballad, later joking about the song’s vocal demands: “I’m pretty sure that just took years off my life and I dropped it a half step.”

Bryan went on to highlight Johnson’s impact both on and off the stage. “Cody is an incredible artist and a singer who always brings his A game. I’ve watched him uplift America, uplift our soldiers and their families, and do it with so much passion. I’m honored to present this award to my buddy.”

When Johnson accepted the honor, he became visibly emotional, reflecting on his journey from independent artist to arena headliner. “The cards have always been stacked against me,” he admitted. “When I heard this award was connected to Merle Haggard, I teared up. He’s always been one of my heroes. To be recognized for doing it my way—it means everything.”

The Texas native recalled turning down multiple record deals early in his career because they required him to compromise his sound. “It wasn’t right for me. It would’ve meant sacrificing the integrity of my music,” he explained. “What you see on stage—that’s me. That’s really my heart and my soul. I give it all every night.”

Johnson closed with gratitude, declaring, “Long live country music, y’all.”

The ACM Spirit Award has previously been awarded to country heavyweights including Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Eric Church, and Chris Stapleton.

Alongside Johnson, the evening honored a slate of industry leaders and icons, including Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Eric Church, Randy Travis, Mac McAnally, Rissi Palmer, and the team behind Twisters.

Fans will be able to relive the star-studded evening when CMT Hot 20: ACM Honors Edition airs on Saturday, Sept. 27. The three-hour special, hosted by CMT’s Cody Alan and Carissa Culiner with event hosts Carly Pearce and Russell Dickerson, will feature exclusive backstage interviews and the night’s most unforgettable performances.