As the prestigious ACM Awards approach, some of country music's biggest names are in contention for entertainer of the year. Lainey Wilson, last year's winner, remains a strong contender alongside other nominees such as Chris Stapleton, Cody Johnson, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Morgan Wallen, and Kelsea Ballerini. Each artist had a remarkable year in 2024, marked by significant achievements like album releases, chart-topping hits, and major performances.
Jelly Roll made waves with his tenth studio album "Beautifully Broken," which accompanied a major tour announcement. Meanwhile, Kelsea Ballerini celebrated her debut at number one on Billboard’s Top Country Albums with "Patterns" and expanded into acting. Morgan Wallen continued to dominate the charts, winning entertainer of the year at the CMA Awards and ranking high among the most-played artists of 2024.
Rising Star Jelly Roll Makes Waves in Country Music
In the competitive world of country music, Jelly Roll emerged as a standout figure in 2024. His impressive body of work includes the release of "Beautifully Broken," his tenth studio album, which showcases his unique artistry and musical depth. Beyond this, he announced an ambitious tour that promises to captivate audiences across the nation. Jelly Roll also broadened his audience by performing at mainstream events such as the Emmy Awards and MTV VMAs, further solidifying his status as a versatile performer.
Jelly Roll's journey through 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. The October release of "Beautifully Broken" demonstrated his growth as an artist, resonating with fans both old and new. In addition to his musical endeavors, he reached new heights when he was announced as a headliner for the 2025 Stagecoach Festival, an event known for its celebration of top-tier talent. His presence at the Emmy Awards and MTV VMAs allowed him to introduce himself to broader audiences, enhancing his cross-genre appeal. These milestones reflect not only his dedication but also his ability to transcend traditional boundaries within the music industry.
Kelsea Ballerini and Morgan Wallen Elevate Country Music Standards
Two of the brightest stars in country music, Kelsea Ballerini and Morgan Wallen, have set new standards for success and innovation in the genre. Ballerini released her highly acclaimed album "Patterns," which debuted at number one on Billboard’s Top Country Albums, marking a pivotal moment in her career. Her transition into acting with a role on ABC's "Doctor Odyssey" added another dimension to her already impressive resume. Simultaneously, Wallen maintained his dominance in the charts, earning accolades and recognition from peers and fans alike.
Ballerini's "Patterns" was more than just an album; it was a statement of artistic evolution and personal growth. Her acting debut on "Doctor Odyssey" showcased her versatility beyond music, while her announcement of a first-ever arena tour indicated her readiness to engage with larger audiences. On the other hand, Morgan Wallen's reign as entertainer of the year at the CMA Awards highlighted his consistent excellence. Notably, his position as one of the most-played artists in 2024 underlined his widespread popularity and influence. Both artists exemplify how creativity and perseverance can elevate careers, setting benchmarks for others in the industry to follow.