Jason Aldean has taken home the night's highest honor: The singer is the winner of the 2016 ACM Award for Entertainer of the Year.

I Saw the Light actor Tom Hiddleston presented the trophy to Aldean.

"I was just starting to think that this one just wasn't in the cards for me, but I'll tell you what, I've got a lot of people to thank," a surprised Aldean said from stage. "Broken Bow Records, Benny Brown, my producer, Michael Knox ... my wife. I love you, baby -- before I thank anybody else, you, and my two babies at home.

"I'll tell you what," he concluded, "I may be rough around the edges, but I love this business, I love the people in it, and I love the fans that support it. Thank you very, very much. I appreciate it. This is one of the best night's of my professional career."

Earlier in the broadcast, Aldean performed “Lights Come On,” from his upcoming seventh studio album

This is Aldean's first ACM Award for Entertainer of the Year. He beat out Luke Bryan, Garth Brooks, Eric Church and Miranda Lambert, who were also nominated in the category. Aldean was also nominated for the ACM Award for Male Vocalist of the Year, with the award going to Chris Stapleton.

Aldean won the 2015 ACM Award for Male Vocalist of the Year. He's been nominated for Entertainer of the Year two times.

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