In an electrifying announcement that has sent shockwaves through the country music world, the Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMs) has confirmed a show-stopping performance by a trio of the genre’s biggest names: Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, and Miranda Lambert. Set to take place at the 61st annual ACM Awards in May 2026, this powerhouse collaboration promises to be the highlight of the evening, blending their signature styles in a performance that’s already being hailed as a historic moment for country music. The event, hosted at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, will mark a rare joint appearance by these three superstars, whose combined star power and chart-topping hits have defined modern country for over two decades.

The ACM Awards, a cornerstone of the country music calendar, are known for delivering unforgettable performances, and this trio’s inclusion raises the bar to new heights. Underwood, Shelton, and Lambert, each a multi-award-winning artist with deep ties to the ACMs, bring distinct flavors to the stage. Their decision to perform together stems from a shared respect and longstanding friendships forged in the Nashville scene, where they’ve crossed paths at awards shows, festivals, and even on tour. Fans are buzzing with anticipation, speculating about what this collaboration might entail—will it be a medley of their greatest hits, a bold new single, or a tribute to country music’s roots?

Carrie Underwood, the Oklahoma-born vocal powerhouse, has been a dominant force since her 2005 “American Idol” win catapulted her to fame. With albums like Some Hearts and Cry Pretty, she’s amassed eight ACM Awards, including Entertainer of the Year, and is celebrated for her soaring vocals and emotionally charged performances. Her recent Las Vegas residency, “Reflection,” has solidified her as a live-performance titan, blending country with pop and rock elements. Underwood’s ability to tackle ballads like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and upbeat anthems like “Before He Cheats” makes her a versatile anchor for this trio.

Blake Shelton, the charismatic hitmaker from Ada, Oklahoma, brings his signature charm and humor to the mix. A 10-time ACM winner, Shelton has ruled the charts with songs like “God’s Country,” “Honey Bee,” and “Ol’ Red,” blending traditional country with a modern edge. His role as a coach on “The Voice” for over 20 seasons has made him a household name beyond country circles, introducing his music to millions. Known for his laid-back stage presence and knack for connecting with audiences, Shelton is expected to bring a playful energy to the performance, perhaps teasing his longtime friend Lambert or trading verses with Underwood.

Miranda Lambert, the Texas firebrand, rounds out the trio with her fierce songwriting and unapologetic attitude. A record-setting 37-time ACM nominee and nine-time winner, Lambert has redefined women in country music with albums like The Weight of These Wings and Wildcard. Her hits, including “Gunpowder & Lead” and “The House That Built Me,” showcase her ability to balance grit and vulnerability. Lambert’s recent work, including her 2025 album Postcards from Texas, has been praised for its return to her Lone Star roots, making her a perfect fit for a performance celebrating country’s heart and soul.

The idea for this collaboration reportedly sparked during a casual gathering at the 2025 CMA Fest in Nashville, where the three artists shared stories about their early days in the industry. Sources close to the ACMs say the trio wanted to create a moment that would honor their shared history while pushing the genre forward. The performance is being carefully crafted with input from all three, with rehearsals already underway to ensure a seamless blend of their styles. Producers have hinted at a setlist that could include a surprise cover of a classic country song, alongside a potential new track written specifically for the ACMs.

Adding to the excitement, the ACMs have teased that this performance will feature “special elements” to make it unforgettable. Speculation is rife about what this might mean—perhaps a guest appearance by another country legend, a nod to the late icons of the genre, or a high-tech stage setup with pyrotechnics and immersive visuals. The T-Mobile Arena, known for hosting massive productions, offers the perfect canvas for such a spectacle, with its 20,000-seat capacity and state-of-the-art sound system. The show will be broadcast live on CBS, with streaming available on Paramount+, ensuring fans worldwide can witness the magic.

The trio’s chemistry is a key draw. Underwood, Shelton, and Lambert have a history of supporting each other’s careers. Shelton and Lambert, who were married from 2011 to 2015, have maintained a professional respect, often praising each other’s work in interviews. Underwood and Lambert have shared stages before, notably their duet “Somethin’ Bad” in 2014, which electrified audiences with its fierce energy. Meanwhile, Shelton and Underwood have collaborated informally on “The Voice,” where their banter showcased a natural camaraderie. This performance marks the first time all three will share the ACM stage together, a milestone that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking.

The setlist remains a closely guarded secret, but fans are already dreaming up possibilities. A medley could feature Underwood’s “Blown Away,” Shelton’s “Austin,” and Lambert’s “Kerosene,” creating a high-octane journey through their catalogs. Alternatively, they might opt for a stripped-down acoustic segment, highlighting their storytelling prowess. There’s also buzz about a potential tribute to country music trailblazers like Dolly Parton or George Jones, tying the performance to the ACMs’ legacy of honoring the genre’s pioneers. Whatever the final lineup, the trio’s vocal and stylistic diversity promises a dynamic show that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers.

The ACM Awards themselves are riding a wave of renewed popularity, with the 2025 ceremony drawing record viewership thanks to its mix of veteran stars and rising talents. The 2026 event is shaping up to be even bigger, with additional performances by artists like Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, and Jelly Roll already confirmed. The Underwood-Shelton-Lambert trio, however, is the crown jewel, expected to steal the show and dominate post-event headlines. The ACMs’ commitment to showcasing the best in country music aligns perfectly with this collaboration, which bridges generations and styles within the genre.

Beyond the performance, the trio’s appearance underscores their influence on country music’s evolution. Underwood has championed women in the industry, advocating for more airplay and recognition. Lambert’s Pistol Annies side project and her MuttNation Foundation reflect her commitment to authenticity and philanthropy. Shelton, meanwhile, has used his platform to mentor new artists, both on “The Voice” and through his Ole Red bar chain, which hosts up-and-coming performers. Their joint performance at the ACMs feels like a celebration of their individual legacies and their collective impact on the genre.

For fans, the anticipation is palpable. Social media platforms are alight with excitement, with hashtags like #ACMTrio and #CountryPowerTrio trending as fans share their dream setlists and memories of past performances. Ticket sales for the ACM Awards are set to begin in January 2026, with high demand expected for both in-person seats and virtual viewing options. VIP packages will offer perks like pre-show parties and exclusive merchandise, including limited-edition items tied to the trio’s performance. Organizers advise fans to act quickly, as the event is likely to sell out given the star-studded lineup.

The broader context of the 2026 ACMs adds even more weight to this moment. Country music has faced challenges in recent years, from debates over genre boundaries to calls for greater diversity. Underwood, Shelton, and Lambert, as established voices, are uniquely positioned to bridge divides, showing how country can be both traditional and innovative. Their performance could set the tone for the industry’s future, proving that collaboration and mutual respect can drive the genre forward.

As May 2026 approaches, the country music world will be counting down to this historic night. The T-Mobile Arena will become a mecca for fans, a place where the spirit of Nashville meets the glitz of Las Vegas. Underwood’s crystalline vocals, Shelton’s down-home charm, and Lambert’s fiery edge will combine for a performance that’s sure to be remembered as one of the ACMs’ finest moments. Whether you’re in the arena or watching from home, this is one show you won’t want to miss—a celebration of country music’s past, present, and future, delivered by three of its brightest stars.