This performance proved to be one of the best moments of the night.
The 61st Academy of Country Music Awards came to a close with Blake Shelton delivering one of the night’s most memorable moments, honoring beloved Nashville songwriter Don Schlitz, who passed away on April 16, 2026, at age 73 following a “sudden illness.”
The tribute unfolded with an electrifying performance of Kenny Rogers’ classic “The Gambler,” the GRAMMY-winning song penned by Schlitz. As Shelton stepped onto the stage, the screen lit up with vibrant neon signs, perfectly capturing the energy of Las Vegas while setting the tone for a powerful finale.
Shelton came dressed for the moment as he took the stage and strummed his guitar, filling the entire arena with the iconic song. It was impossible for the fans and fellow artists not to get on their feet and sing along until the very last note.
Released on November 15, 1978 as the title track to Rogers’ album of the same name, the song climbed its way to the top of the country charts and also crossed over onto the pop charts.
Following rehearsals at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Shelton had reflected on just how meaningful the song has been throughout his life.
“That particular song is like two legends came together and made one of the most important pieces of music in country music history…I would say it’s in the top 10, at least it’s in my top 10 of all time.”
Shelton previously recorded his own version of “The Gambler” in 2006 while working in the studio with renowned producer Bobby Braddock. Leading up to the ACM Awards, he also released a cover of the song exclusively on Amazon Music in honor of the performance.
The Oklahoma native, who is currently in the midst of his Las Vegas residency, brought the night to a memorable close with the tribute that celebrated the lasting legacy of both Schlitz and Rogers.
His residency will pick back up at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace for the final shows on May 21 and 24.
2026 ACM Awards Performance Lineup
The 61st Academy of Country Music Awards also featured performances by Avery Anna, Carter Faith, Cody Johnson, Dan + Shay, Ella Langley, Jordan Davis, Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, Lainey Wilson, Little Big Town, Miranda Lambert, Riley Green, The Red Clay Strays, Thomas Rhett, Tucker Wetmore, and Zach Top.
Other highlights include collaborations between Thomas Rhett and Jordan Davis and Parker McCollum and Lee Ann Womack.
Ashley McBryde, Keith Urban, Lauren Alaina, Michael Bublé, Shaboozey, The War And Treaty, and TJ Osborne were among the night’s many presenters.
Shania Twain hosted the nearly 2.5 hour event, which streamed live to a global audience in over 240 countries and territories exclusively on Prime Video. The show returned to Las Vegas and aired from the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
