Vince Gill honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at 2025 CMA Awards
Vince Gill received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Country Music Association Awards. With a career spanning nearly five decades, Gill was celebrated as a longstanding figure in country music.
Performance tribute during the ceremony
Before accepting the award, Gill was serenaded by fellow artists. Brandi Carlile opened with a heartfelt rendition of “When I Call Your Name,” originally from Gill's 1989 breakthrough album of the same title. Patti Loveless then joined Carlile to complete the performance, while Gill watched from the audience, clearly moved.
Acceptance speech highlights
“It’s not lost on me that we had to have girls come out here and sing for me tonight. None of the boys can get up that high,”
Gill joked during his acceptance. He reflected on the exclusivity of the award, saying,
“In the history of this award, I think it’s been given to maybe ten people, nine or ten, something like that. And that list of people is astounding.”
After thanking his family and management, he saluted the award’s namesake, Willie Nelson:
“92 years old, you’re still inspiring us to this day. God bless.”
Career achievements
Since 1985, Gill has released 19 albums. Every solo album released since 1989 has reached the top ten on Billboard’s Hot Country chart.
Author’s summary: Vince Gill’s recognition at the 2025 CMA Awards celebrates an illustrious 50-year career marked by consistent chart success and deep respect from peers.