The 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards was a night of unforgettable performances, but one collaboration stood out as a true testament to the genre-bending power of music: Nate Smith, the newly crowned ACM New Male Artist of the Year, joined forces with pop-punk icon Avril Lavigne for a captivating rendition of his hit song “Bulletproof.”
Nate Smith and Avril Lavigne performing "Bulletproof" at the 2024 ACM Awards
The duo’s performance, a seamless blend of Smith’s soulful country vocals and Lavigne’s signature pop-punk edge, brought the audience to their feet. The unexpected collaboration injected a jolt of energy into the awards ceremony, showcasing the versatility of both artists and the evolving landscape of contemporary country music.
From Country Charts to a Cross-Genre Collaboration
Nate Smith’s ascent in the country music scene has been nothing short of meteoric. His breakout single “World On Fire” dominated Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, holding the coveted No. 1 spot for ten consecutive weeks, a feat previously achieved only by superstar Morgan Wallen with his smash hit “You Proof.” This accomplishment marked Smith as a force to be reckoned with, and his follow-up single “Bulletproof,” continued his winning streak, climbing to No. 15 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
The decision to collaborate with Avril Lavigne for the ACM Awards performance was a stroke of genius, introducing Smith’s music to a wider audience and adding another layer of depth to “Bulletproof.” Lavigne, known for her powerful vocals and undeniable stage presence, brought a raw energy to the performance, perfectly complementing Smith’s heartfelt delivery.
“Through the Smoke”: A Glimpse into Nate Smith’s Artistic Journey
“Bulletproof,” the song at the heart of the unforgettable ACM performance, is featured on Smith’s seven-track EP Through The Smoke, released in April 2024. The EP showcases Smith’s versatility as an artist, blending heartfelt ballads with up-tempo anthems.
Along with original tracks, Through The Smoke features a captivating cover of Nirvana’s “Heart Shaped Box,” further demonstrating Smith’s ability to seamlessly navigate different genres while staying true to his country roots.
A Night of Country Music’s Finest
The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards, hosted by the legendary Reba McEntire, was a night filled with memorable moments and outstanding performances. The event, held in Frisco, Texas, was streamed live globally on Prime Video, bringing the excitement of country music’s biggest night to fans around the world.
Nate Smith and Avril Lavigne’s “Bulletproof” performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of the evening, a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and create something truly special. As both artists continue to evolve and captivate audiences, their paths may cross again, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the possibility of future collaborations.
