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Vince Gill shared heartfelt remarks as he accepted the 2025 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award during the 59th CMA Awards on Wednesday evening (November 19).
Gill, 68, took the stage after an introduction by Texas-born country legend George Strait (who accepted the honor last year), and a stunning performance by Brandi Carlile and Patty Loveless. The Country Music Association revealed earlier this month that Gill would receive the award. Gill — who has played with the Eagles, Pure Prairie League, The Cherry Bombs and The Time Jumpers, to name a few — is “known for his heartfelt songwriting, masterful guitar playing, and unmistakable tenor voice, (and) he is equally admired for the warmth, humility, and quiet humor that have endeared him to fans and artists alike,” per a press release issued November 10. Previous recipients include Willie Nelson (2012), Kenny Rogers (2013), Johnny Cash (2015), Dolly Parton (2016), Kris Kristofferson (2019), Charley Pride (2020), Loretta Lynn (2021), Alan Jackson (2022) and George Strait (2024).
“Vince embodies the very best of what Country Music stands for,” CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern said in a statement. “He’s a true trailblazer, one who gives back to the community, honors the roots of our genre, and even now, continues to share his talent with fans across the globe. As a Country Music Hall of Fame member, 18-time CMA Award winner, and former 12-time CMA Awards host, he remains a vibrant force in our industry, and we’re honored to celebrate an artist whose influence is so deeply woven into the fabric of our format.”
The 59th CMA Awards is airing live on ABC. The show will be available to stream on Thursday (November 20) on Hulu. Check back with iHeartCountry throughout the evening for a live-updated list of winners, red carpet fashion, performance highlights, backstage moments you won’t see on TV, and other can’t-miss moments throughout the show.