Ella Langley had a breakthrough night at the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards, walking away as the biggest winner of the evening with five major honors, including Female Artist of the Year.
The 27-year-old country star also took the stage in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, where she delivered a standout performance as the ceremony unfolded.
Langley, who hails from Hope Hull, Alabama, was also named Artist-Songwriter of the Year, while her hit track Choosin’ Texas scored both Song of the Year and Single of the Year. Her collaboration with Riley Green, Don’t Mind if I Do, also picked up Music Event of the Year.
Overwhelmed on stage, Langley admitted she was “at a loss for words” as she accepted one of her awards, visibly emotional while addressing the crowd. Her wins set a new ACM record for the most awards earned by a single artist in one year.
During her Female Artist of the Year speech, she took a heartfelt moment to acknowledge fellow nominees Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, and Kelsea Ballerini, expressing gratitude for the support and encouragement she’s received from women in the industry.
Langley also thanked her family for their constant support and gave a lighthearted shoutout to her upbringing, as well as a moment of appreciation for her faith, saying she was grateful to be able to do what she loves for a living.
Earlier in the night, she also performed an acoustic version of Be Her, showcasing a more stripped-back side of her artistry during the televised event streamed on Prime Video.
Her duet partner Riley Green later praised her talent and dedication while accepting their joint award, recalling her relaxed studio energy when they recorded their hit collaboration in Nashville.
The night marked a defining moment in Langley’s rising career, cementing her status as one of country music’s fastest-growing stars and one of the evening’s standout performers.#newsafro_
