Russell Dickerson Finds Solace in AMA Nomination After ACM Snub

The country star opens up about the disappointment of missing out on ACM nods but the joy of being recognized by the fan-voted American Music Awards.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:00pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering, reflective country music award statuettes under dramatic studio lighting, creating a high-contrast, glamorous texture that conceptually represents the emotional highs and lows of industry recognition.The glittering trophies of country music awards can represent both triumph and heartbreak for artists like Russell Dickerson.Today in Nashville

Country singer Russell Dickerson was open about his disappointment at being shut out of nominations for the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards, despite having the biggest year of his career so far. However, Dickerson found solace in being nominated for Best Country Song at the fan-voted American Music Awards, which he sees as a 'cherry on top' after the ACM snub.

Why it matters

Award show nominations can have a significant impact on an artist's career, both in terms of exposure and industry recognition. Dickerson's candid comments about the ACM snub and his subsequent AMA nomination highlight the emotional rollercoaster that musicians often experience in the pursuit of accolades.

The details

At a #1 party for his song 'Happen to Me' at BMI in Nashville, Dickerson told reporters that he was disappointed to be left out of the ACM nominations, which were announced the week prior. However, he said the AMA nomination a week later 'picked the spirits back up,' especially since it's an all-genre award show, which he sees as an added honor.

  • The 61st ACM Awards are scheduled for May 17, 2026 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
  • The 2026 American Music Awards will take place on May 25, 2026 at the same venue in Las Vegas.

The players

Russell Dickerson

A country music singer-songwriter who has experienced a breakout year, with his song 'Happen to Me' reaching #1 on the charts.

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What they’re saying

“'Speaking very candidly, there was another award show that was announced the week before and that was kind of like, 'Oh man, that woulda been cool to be in that category.'”

— Russell Dickerson, Country Music Artist

“'So this coming out a week later or whatever was definitely like — [it] picked the spirits back up. And it being an all-genre show is what's a little cherry on top. Feels nice.'”

— Russell Dickerson, Country Music Artist

What’s next

Fans can vote for Russell Dickerson's song 'Happen to Me' in the Best Country Song category at the 2026 American Music Awards, which will be held on May 25, 2026 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The takeaway

Dickerson's experience highlights the emotional ups and downs that artists face in the pursuit of industry recognition, as well as the importance of fan-voted awards in providing a sense of validation when more traditional accolades prove elusive.