Cody Johnson won the top prize of entertainer of the year at the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards, but it was Ella Langley’s show from the start. Sunday night's first honor, for song of the year, went to Langley for the crossover hit “Choosin’ Texas.” She thanked fans in her speech: “I don’t know why you latched on to this song but thank you for doing it.” She later won single of the year for the same smash. She also joined Riley Green shortly thereafter, as their duet “Don’t Mind if I Do” took home music event of the year. Then she received her fourth on-stage trophy for female artist of the year.