28 Years Ago, This Female Country Star Took Over the ACM Awards
28 years ago today on April 22, 1998, Trisha Yearwood reached another milestone in her already celebrated career, winning Top Female Vocalist of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
By the late '90s, Yearwood, 61, had firmly established herself as one of country music's most powerful and consistent voices. Known for her emotional delivery and genre-crossing appeal, the win recognized a run of success that included hits like "How Do I Live" and "Perfect Love," as well as her growing influence beyond traditional country.
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A Night Full of Country Music Heavyweights
Yearwood wasn't the only star honored that night. George Strait took home Top Male Vocalist of the Year, further cementing his legacy as one of the genre's most enduring figures. Meanwhile, Brooks & Dunn were named Top Vocal Duo or Group, continuing their dominance throughout the decade.
Rising talent also had a moment in the spotlight, with Kenny Chesney winning Top New Male Vocalist of the Year-an early sign of the massive career he would go on to build.
One of the night's biggest highlights came from Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, whose duet "It's Your Love" earned both Song of the Year and Country Music Video of the Year, capturing the attention of fans across genres.
A Defining Era for Country Music
The 1998 ceremony reflected a moment when country music was expanding its reach, blending traditional sounds with crossover appeal. Artists like Yearwood were at the center of that evolution, balancing heartfelt storytelling with mainstream success.
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This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 4:11 AM.