After Keifer and Shawna Thompson completed their set, ACM CEO, Bob Romeo, presented them with the award for ‘Vocal Duo of the Year” …  a day early!

Thompson Square is the first duo besides Brooks and Dunn or Sugarland to win the ACM for ‘Vocal Duo’ since 1991. Since that time, Brooks & Dunn have won the ‘Vocal Duo’ award 16 times. The reigning duo winners, Sugarland, took home the trophy for 2010 and 2008. (In 1998 and 1999, the Dixie Chicks won the award when the category was combined with both duos and groups.)

While accepting the award, the duo was overcome with emotion:

Keifer : “It’s been a long, long road. This is one of the greatest nights of our lives. It’s hard to talk when you’re crying.”

Shawna: “This is a very bittersweet moment for me. More sweet than bitter. My dad passed away a month ago. This is for my dad.”

You can watch the video below of Shawna and Keifer accepting the award…

Today, the newly named ’2011 ACM Vocal Duo of the Year’ shared their excitement via Facebook/Twitter:

one of the best nights of our lives last night at the ACM’s. thank you country radio and our fans.

Congratulations to Thompson Square!!!!

Related posts:

1. POLL: ACM Awards – Vocal Duo Of The Year
2. Shawna Thompson of Thompson Square Loses Father to Cancer
3. Thompson Square Reacts To ACM Nomination