Ella Langley Shines at 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards
Ella Langley made a significant mark at the 2026 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, securing five major awards. The 27-year-old singer, known for her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics, was honored as female artist of the year. Her performance at the event, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, added to the excitement of the night.
Langley’s achievements extended beyond just the female artist of the year award. She also received the title of artist-songwriter of the year, while her track “Choosin’ Texas” was recognized as both song of the year and single of the year. Additionally, her collaboration with Riley Green, “Don’t Mind if I Do,” was named music event of the year.
In her speech for song of the year, Langley expressed her surprise at the recognition, stating she was “at a loss for words.” She acknowledged the significance of the moment, noting that she had set an ACM record for the most wins by a single artist in a year.
During her acceptance speech for female artist of the year, Langley took a moment to recognize the other women who were nominated alongside her: Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, and Kelsea Ballerini. She also mentioned Megan Moroney, who was also nominated. Langley reflected on the support she received from these artists, saying, “Thank you to the women in this category – to the women in this life. This is a weird thing to do.”
She shared a humorous anecdote about walking into Lainey Wilson’s room and being greeted with a hug. “And all of a sudden, here comes Miranda Lambert in her pink hat… Kelsea, thank you so much for lovin’ on me.” Langley emphasized the importance of the support she received from these women, stating, “I would not be standing up here without the encouragement of so many women.”
Langley also thanked her family for their continued support and expressed gratitude to Jesus Christ for allowing her to pursue her passion for music. She delivered an acoustic performance of her track “Be Her” during the event, which was streamed on Prime Video.
Langley was nominated for seven awards at the show, which was hosted by Shania Twain. She made a striking appearance in a bridal white corset dress with a high neck and low back.
Riley Green, who collaborated with Langley on “Don’t Mind if I Do,” expressed his appreciation for her work in their acceptance speech. He shared a story about how Langley arrived at the studio in her pajamas and delivered a performance that perfectly captured the essence of the song. Langley responded with a light-hearted comment, saying, “I had on jeans and a T-shirt, thank you very much.”
Cody Johnson, another notable winner of the night, was named entertainer of the year and male artist of the year. He dedicated his entertainer of the year award to Luke Combs, citing his dedication to country music. Johnson recounted how he was present in Australia when Combs’ wife gave birth to their son and witnessed the emotional moment of missing the event.
Despite the setback, Johnson praised Combs for his resilience and artistry, noting how he delivered an impressive performance the next night. He concluded his speech with a heartfelt message, saying, “So, tonight I want to dedicate my first entertainer of year award to my buddy, Luke Combs. I love you, brother.”
Shania Twain highlighted the current state of country music, emphasizing its growth and the diverse range of artists contributing to the genre. She noted that the songs and storytellers are now reaching audiences globally.
Other winners of the night included Miranda Lambert, Stephen Wilson Jr., Avery Anna, Tucker Wetmore, Brooks & Dunn, and many more. The event featured 17 musical performances from a variety of country music superstars, including Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, and Kacey Musgraves.
Notable performers included Carter Faith, Cody Johnson, Dan + Shay, Ella Langley, Jordan Davis, Kane Brown, Lee Ann Womack, Little Big Town, Parker McCollum, Riley Green, The Red Clay Strays, Thomas Rhett, and Zach Top.
Brooks & Dunn celebrated their 18th win for duo of the year, with Kix Brooks humorously commenting on their long-standing success. “I don’t know why you aren’t getting sick of us, but God bless you for hanging with us, because we love it with y’all.”
The Academy of Country Music is set to return to Las Vegas in 2027 for its 62nd ACM Awards.
