Reba McEntire Opens 2025 ACM Awards With Emotional Message to “Real People” and Brings the Audience to Tears With Merle Haggard’s “Okie from Muskogee”

The 2025 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards were kicked off in a way that will be remembered for years to come. Country music legend Reba McEntire, who has been a beloved figure in the country music scene for decades, took to the stage with a heartfelt message that resonated deeply with fans across the globe.

With her powerful presence and emotional words, McEntire set the tone for the evening, reminding us all of the true essence of country music.

A Tribute to “Real People”

As McEntire opened the night, she captured the essence of country music, acknowledging its roots in the stories and lives of “real people.” In her speech, the singer emphasized the importance of honoring those whose lives are shaped by hard work, perseverance, and a deep love for family and tradition.

Her tribute was a recognition of not just the performers, but also the everyday people who inspire the music that has become the heartbeat of America.

“Tonight is for you,” McEntire said, her voice quivering with emotion. “For the real people who work every day, who love with all their hearts, and who make this world a better place simply by being who they are.”

Her words resonated in the hearts of the audience, sparking an outpouring of applause and admiration. It was a fitting tribute to the blue-collar spirit that defines the country music genre.

Paying Homage to a Legend: Merle Haggard’s “Okie from Muskogee”

In a move that left the audience wiping away tears, McEntire followed up her opening words with a performance of Merle Haggard’s iconic song, “Okie from Muskogee.”

As soon as the first chords rang out, it was clear this was not just any ordinary performance. McEntire, dressed in a stunning red gown, delivered the song with a heartfelt reverence for the man whose music shaped the genre for generations.

“Okie from Muskogee,” first released in 1969, has become a staple in country music, known for its bold and unapologetic lyrics that speak to the values of the working class.

The song’s powerful message about pride in one’s roots and defiance in the face of societal changes struck a chord with McEntire as she performed it, delivering every line with passion and authenticity. The audience at the MGM Grand Garden Arena was visibly moved, some even wiping away tears, as McEntire’s rendition brought a new layer of emotion to Haggard’s timeless classic.

A Powerful Connection with the Audience

The emotional response from the audience was palpable, with many in the crowd standing in applause as McEntire poured her heart into the performance.

The tribute to Haggard, who passed away in 2016, was a powerful reminder of the lasting legacy of country music’s pioneers. It was a beautiful moment, not just for McEntire but for the entire country music community, which continues to honor and celebrate its legends.

Throughout the performance, McEntire was able to strike a delicate balance between honoring Haggard’s spirit and making the song her own. Her vocal delivery was nothing short of breathtaking, as she infused the song with her unique style while staying true to the essence of what made “Okie from Muskogee” so special.

As the last note lingered in the air, the arena erupted in applause, a fitting tribute to both Haggard’s legacy and McEntire’s enduring influence on country music. It was clear that this performance would be one of the highlights of the evening, and one that fans would talk about for years to come.

A Night to Remember

The 2025 ACM Awards kicked off with a bang, and Reba McEntire’s opening speech and emotional performance set the bar high for the rest of the evening. Her tribute to “real people” and her powerful rendition of “Okie from Muskogee” highlighted the best of country music: heart, soul, and authenticity.

The evening was not only a celebration of the genre but also a reminder of the enduring power of music to bring people together, tell stories, and evoke deep emotions.

The 2025 ACM Awards were a reminder of the timeless connection between country music and the everyday lives of its listeners. McEntire’s performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most emotional and impactful moments in the history of the awards show.

As the night continued, it was clear that the spirit of Merle Haggard and the values he sang about would remain a guiding light in the world of country music for years to come.

The Legacy Lives On

As the night unfolded and the winners were crowned, Reba McEntire’s tribute to Haggard and her message about “real people” continued to resonate.

In a world where the fast pace of life often drowns out the voices of everyday folks, McEntire’s message served as a powerful reminder of the heart and soul that lies at the core of country music.

It’s a reminder that, no matter where life takes us, we all carry the stories of those who came before us and whose struggles, triumphs, and dreams shaped the music we love.

With her opening speech and performance, McEntire not only set the stage for a spectacular evening of music but also honored the legacy of those who made country music what it is today.

As fans left the arena, many were still wiping away tears, knowing they had witnessed a performance that would remain etched in their hearts forever.

This year’s ACM Awards were a testament to the power of country music to inspire, uplift, and unite people from all walks of life. Reba McEntire’s emotional tribute to Merle Haggard and the “real people” who continue to fuel the genre will be remembered as one of the most unforgettable moments in the show’s history.