Music legend Randy Travis was honored with the coveted ACM Milestone Award at the 18th ACM Honors on Wednesday night, honoring an artist for unprecedented achievement in Country Music. As part of the ceremony, Jamey Johnson performed Travis’ “Three Wooden Crosses” to the crowd at The Pinnacle in Nashville, which was greeted by a standing ovation as Randy and Mary Travis took the stage to accept the award.
“Between your birthstone and your headstone, it’s the milestones along the way that matter the most,” Mary Travis said as she helped Randy accept the Milestone Award, also borrowing from Randy’s song “Three Wooden Crosses;” “It’s not what you take when you go, but what you leave behind.”
Mary continued, “Randy never thought his music would have the impact it has had, or that he would be standing here decades later surrounded by so many that shaped him and gave him a place to belong,” and Randy wrapped the acceptance of the award by saying, “Thank you, a lot.”
The Academy of Country Music picked Randy Travis for the ACM Milestone Award for his impact on launching the New Traditionalist Movement in Country Music, influencing artists from Clint Black to Chris Stapleton. The Academy expanded on Travis’ impact, writing: “Following a life-altering stroke in 2013, his courage has become a symbol of resilience. He has since been honored with many tributes at Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry, as well as become a prominent voice for advocating stroke awareness and healthcare rights in the industry. He continues to pioneer the future of Country Music, incorporating AI-assisted vocals to reimagine and revive old and never-before-heard songs, allowing for the preservation of a unique sound that defined a generation of the genre.”
Past recipients of the ACM Milestone Award include Garth Brooks, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Luke Combs, Merle Haggard, Miranda Lambert, Loretta Lynn, Willie Nelson, Blake Shelton, George Strait, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson.
Fans will be able to watch a special episode of CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown on September 27, which will highlight moments from the ACM Honors show.
For fans that want to see Randy on the road and hear his songs, the “More Life Tour” is starting this evening in Denver, Colorado, following a wildly successful Spring run. Travis, his original touring band, and special guest vocalist James Dupré bring an extraordinary musical experience to fans across the country. The tour promises an unforgettable journey through Travis’ chart-topping hits, enhanced by video highlights from his celebrated career in music, film, and television.
