Vince Gill and Amy Grant Open Up at the 2025 CMA Awards About Lifetime Honors, Holiday Plans, and a New Season of Music
Country music royalty Vince Gill and Amy Grant brought warmth, candor, and unmistakable star presence to the red carpet as they spoke with ET’s Cassie DiLaura at the 2025 Country Music Association Awards, airing live Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, and available for streaming the following day on Hulu. The beloved couple, admired for their decades-long influence on American music, arrived in high spirits as they prepared for what promises to be one of the most meaningful nights of Vince Gill’s career.
This year, Vince Gill is set to receive the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor reserved for artists whose extraordinary contributions have shaped country music in profound, lasting ways. As cameras flashed and fans cheered from the sidelines, Vince paused to reflect on what the award means to him — emotionally, musically, and personally.
“I’m humbled,” he told ET. “You never expect recognition like this when you start out. All you can do is try to write honest songs and sing them the best you can. To be mentioned in the same breath as Willie Nelson… it’s hard to put into words.”
Despite decades of accolades, 22 Grammy Awards, and a legendary reputation as one of Nashville’s most respected vocalists and guitarists, Vince spoke with the same gentle humility that has endeared him to millions. Amy Grant, standing proudly beside him, touched his arm and added, “I’ve watched him pour so much heart into his music for so long. This is incredibly deserved.”
The couple also teased details about their upcoming holiday residency at the Ryman Auditorium, a Nashville tradition fans look forward to year after year. Their annual Christmas shows have become some of the most beloved seasonal performances in the city, blending sacred holiday classics, lighthearted storytelling, and the intimate chemistry that has defined their partnership onstage and off.
Amy shared that this year’s residency will explore “themes of gratitude, healing, and togetherness,” noting how important these ideas feel in today’s world. Vince chimed in with a smile, adding that audiences can expect “a few surprises,” along with brand-new arrangements of their holiday favorites. Fans can also look forward to Vince’s signature guitar flourishes, Amy’s luminous vocals, and the warm, family-oriented atmosphere that has made the Ryman holiday shows a Nashville staple.
As the couple walked through the venue, industry insiders noted how seamlessly they balanced nostalgia with excitement for the future. Gill’s iconic songwriting and musical craftsmanship — combined with Amy Grant’s uplifting presence and crossover legacy — continue to influence both country and contemporary Christian music in ways few artists ever accomplish.
Throughout the interview, their bond was undeniable: gentle glances, shared laughter, and the kind of easy companionship that comes only from years of walking side by side through life, music, and faith. Cassie DiLaura called the interview “one of the sweetest moments of the night,” capturing a rare combination of star power and genuine humility.
With the spotlight on Vince Gill’s Lifetime Achievement Award and anticipation building for their holiday residency, fans have plenty to celebrate. As the CMA Awards continue to honor the past, present, and future of country music, Vince Gill and Amy Grant remain shining examples of artistry rooted in sincerity, generosity, and timeless talent.
And tonight, as the curtain rises, the world will be watching Vince Gill take a well-earned place among the true legends of country music.