Ella Langley Dominates ACM Awards Night

Ella Langley emerged as a major winner at the Academy of Country Music Awards, capturing the spotlight early by clinching the song of the year award for her crossover hit “Choosin’ Texas.” Presented by Michael Bublé, this award kicked off her remarkable night. Langley expressed gratitude in her speech, notably thanking her fans for embracing the song.

Her success continued with the single of the year award for the same track. Langley then won music event of the year alongside Riley Green for their duet “Don’t Mind if I Do.” She wrapped up her triumphant evening by earning the female artist of the year award, acknowledging the support of fellow women in her acceptance speech.

Despite Langley’s achievements, Cody Johnson took home the entertainer of the year award, a coveted prize that he dedicated to Luke Combs. Johnson also received the male artist of the year accolade, adding to his accomplishments for the night. Reflecting on his win, Johnson spoke about music as a means of conveying emotion.

The awards ceremony featured performances from numerous country music icons. Lainey Wilson, the previous years’ entertainer of the year winner, opened the show with an energetic rendition of “Can’t Sit Still.” The event at MGM Grand Garden Arena marked a change from previous ceremonies held in Frisco, Texas.

Artists like Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett, Jordan Davis, Avery Anna, and Little Big Town entertained the audience with various performances. Host Shania Twain made her first appearance, succeeding longtime host Reba McEntire. Twain shared personal anecdotes and celebrated female artists during her introduction.

Several awards were distributed before the televised event. Langley received artist-songwriter of the year, Jessie Jo Dillon claimed songwriter of the year, and Stephen Wilson Jr. won visual media of the year. Tucker Wetmore and Anna earned new male and female artist of the year titles, respectively.

Certain performances stood out in the ceremony. Kacey Musgraves’ “Dry Spell,” Carter Faith’s “If I Had Never Lost My Mind,” and Dan + Shay’s tribute “Say So” dedicated to Ben Vaughn were among them.

Parker McCollum’s self-titled album won album of the year, edging out competitors such as Morgan Wallen, Zach Top, Riley Green, and Carter Faith.

The event concluded with Blake Shelton’s rendition of “The Gambler,” honoring the song’s historic legacy.

The 2026 ACM Awards streamed online via Prime Video, the Amazon Music channel on Twitch, and the Amazon Music app.