Langley Ties Female Record with Nine CMA Award Nominations
Ella Langley has received nine nominations for the 60th annual CMA Awards, matching the previous high for a female artist set by Miranda Lambert and later equaled by Lainey Wilson. For the first time in the ceremony's history, four of the five single-of-the-year nominees are female artists. Langley's hit 'Choosin' Texas' is the only track nominated in the single, song, and music video categories this year.
Langley's nine nominations place her just behind the overall single-year benchmark set by Alan Jackson. Her double nod in the single category is a rare feat, previously achieved by Lainey Wilson. The ballot also marks a historic first where four of five single nominees are women.
Several longstanding records fell this year. Miranda Lambert extended her lead in female vocalist nods, while Shane McAnally set a new songwriting nomination mark. Little Big Town's continuous group streak reached two decades, and Jack Antonoff earned his first country music recognition.
The record-breaking female nominations could signal a meaningful shift in country music's gender dynamics, potentially encouraging more female artists to pursue mainstream success. This recognition may also influence industry investment in women-led projects and broaden the genre's appeal to crossover audiences. The historic milestones might boost viewership for the ceremony, while the inclusion of pop figures could further blur genre boundaries, reshaping how country music is perceived by the general public.