Fresh off his win as the Academy of Country Music’s New Male Artist of the Year, Nate Smith surprised fans with an electrifying duet featuring pop-punk icon Avril Lavigne. The duo delivered a powerful rendition of Smith’s hit single “Bulletproof” at the 59th ACM Awards in Frisco, Texas, captivating the audience with their undeniable chemistry and soaring vocals.
Nate Smith and Avril Lavigne performing "Bulletproof" at the ACM Awards.
The collaboration, a unique blend of country grit and pop-punk energy, was a highlight of the star-studded awards ceremony hosted by country music legend Reba McEntire. Smith, known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, and Lavigne, celebrated for her powerful vocals and edgy style, seamlessly fused their musical identities, creating a performance that resonated with fans across genres.
Smith’s “Bulletproof” is featured on his recently released seven-track EP Through The Smoke, a collection showcasing his impressive vocal range and songwriting prowess. The EP, launched via Sony Nashville, includes five original tracks and a captivating rendition of Nirvana’s “Heart Shaped Box.” The single, “Bulletproof,” has rapidly climbed the Billboard charts, peaking at #15 on the Country Airplay chart, solidifying Smith’s position as a rising star in the country music scene.
Cover art for Nate Smith's EP "Through the Smoke."
This career-defining moment follows Smith’s phenomenal success with his chart-topping single “World On Fire.” The song dominated Billboard’s Country Airplay chart for ten consecutive weeks, amassing over 210 million global streams. This achievement placed Smith alongside country music heavyweight Morgan Wallen, whose single “You Proof” held the previous record for the longest reign at No. 1, a testament to Smith’s undeniable talent and growing influence.
The electrifying performance with Avril Lavigne at the ACM Awards has sparked speculation about Lavigne’s potential foray into the world of country music. Following in the footsteps of global superstars like Beyonce and Post Malone, who have seamlessly blended genres and embraced country music influences, Lavigne’s collaboration with Smith hints at a possible exploration of a new musical direction.
For fans worldwide, the “Bulletproof” duet was an unforgettable moment, highlighting the power of musical collaboration and the exciting possibilities that emerge when artists break genre barriers. As Nate Smith continues his meteoric rise in the music industry, his collaboration with Avril Lavigne marks a pivotal moment in his career, solidifying his status as an artist to watch and leaving audiences eager for what’s next.