The 2026 ACM Awards paused its evening of celebration for its ACM Lifting Lives segment in order to honor Ben Vaughn, the late president and CEO of Warner Chappell Nashville, who died at age 49 in January 2025, and share an important message.
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As presenter Lauren Alaina, who was the runner-up in season 10 of American Idol, shared, shared Vaughn had been an important figure in her life as well as that of performers Dan + Shay. During the emotional introduction, Alaina at one point paused to collect herself after tearing up to remind viewers that anyone who is dealing with mental health issues should know that there are people willing to listen and help however they can, and to speak out for help.
With that, she threw it to the country music duo for their performance of “Say So,” which Alaina noted was “inspired by the heartbreaking loss of Ben Vaughn.”
“If your light burns out and you’re in the dark/ If you can’t pick up the pieces/ If the world you trusted falls apart/ If your heart’s run out of reasons/ I’ll be there every time you call,” the pair sing in the emotional chorus. “Pick you up every time you fall/ If you’rе going through hell, you’re not alone/ If you need somеbody, say so.”
The track is the lead single off Dan + Shay’s upcoming album Young, which is set to arrive on Aug. 21. “Young is by far our most personal album yet, and we are beyond excited for our fans to hear it,” the duo said in a statement when announcing the album. “Every song is inspired by a true story, and gives a real-time snapshot of exactly where we are in our lives.”
ACM Lifting lives, the academy’s philanthropic partner, this year celebrates its 20th anniversary. In its two decades, it has helped fund programs for the health and well-being of those in country music. Since 2006, it has donated more than $12 million to help with everything from natural disaster recovery, illnesses and more.
If you or anyone you know is in crisis, reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 24/7 or visiting the website for free, confidential support and resources.
The ACM Awards are produced by Dick Clark Productions, which is owned by Penske Media Eldridge, a joint venture between Eldridge Industries and Billboard parent company Penske Media.
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