Tenille Townes is slowly getting used to winning her first ACM Award, for New Female Artist of the Year. The Canadian, who was given the good news in a surprise Zoom call by Keith Urban earlier this week, spoke out about the industry recognition on social media, after having some time to process the accolade.
“I just still don’t really know what to say,” Tenille reflected. “Being the recipient of an ACM Award is something I put in a far away dream in my mind for a someday. This moment to me feels like a seat has been pulled up at the country music table, and I’m freaking out to get to be sitting here. What a table. I’m in awe of and so inspired by this community. I used to beg my parents to let me stay up as a really little kid late enough to watch the ACMs and watch my heroes sing on the show. This is all so surreal.
“Thank you guys for all being so encouraging and celebrating this beside me,” she continued. “For all your comments and kind words. For coming up to the merch stand after shows and telling me your stories. For letting these songs be a part of your lives. I’m so grateful for the people I get to work with on this adventure, and celebrate this with. Hanging on cloud 11 today and can’t stop smiling…. what a day. Thanks for all your love.”
Shortly after receiving the good news, Tenille said she would never forget the moment she found out she won.
“I’ll always remember this feeling, standing here as a new artist,” Tenille said. “I feel so honored and incredibly grateful just to be a part of this country music community that inspires me. Receiving this ACM Award feels like belief from that community, and that means so much to me.”
Riley Green won the ACM Award for New Male Artist of the Year. Both Tenille and Riley will perform during the live broadcast, which will take place on September 16, at the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium and Bluebird Cafe Keith will serve as the evening’s host. The ACM Awards will air live at 8:00 PM ET on CBS.
Tenille’s freshman The Lemonade Stand was released in February. The record includes her hit single, “Somebody’s Daughter.”