Ella Langley is the standout name at this year’s Country Music Association Awards, earning nine nominations across the top categories. The Texas‑born singer‑songwriter, whose crossover hit “Choosin’ Texas” dominated the charts, is in contention for Single of the Year, Album of the Year, and the coveted Entertainer of the Year honor.
Mentor Miranda Lambert close behind
Long‑time mentor Miranda Lambert, the most‑winning female in CMA history, follows with six nominations. Lambert’s contributions include co‑producing Langley’s album “Dandelion” and co‑writing the hit single that propelled Langley to chart‑topping success.
Other leading nominees
Kacey Musgraves and Ben West each received five nominations, while Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton and Stephen Wilson Jr. earned four apiece. Dave Clauss, Luke Combs and Lainey Wilson secured three nominations each.
Top categories and contenders
In the race for Entertainer of the Year, Langley will compete against Johnson, Stapleton, Combs and Wilson, who is seeking a repeat win. The Single of the Year category features Langley’s “Be Her” and “Choosin’ Texas,” Taylor Swift’s “I Knew It, I Knew You” from the film “Toy Story 5,” Wilson’s “Somewhere Over Laredo,” and Johnson’s “The Fall.” Producer‑writer Jack Antonoff earned his first nomination as producer of Swift’s track.
Album and song nominations
Album of the Year nominees include Langley’s “Dandelion,” Zach Top’s “Ain’t In It For My Health,” Musgraves’ “Middle of Nowhere,” Parker McCollum’s self‑titled release, and Combs’ “The Way I Am.” Song of the Year contenders are “Be Her,” “Beautiful Things,” “Choosin’ Texas,” “Dry Spell” and “Gary.”
Past winners and upcoming broadcast
Last year, Stephen Wilson Jr. captured both Entertainer and Album of the Year honors, while Cody Johnson was named Male Vocalist of the Year and Brooks & Dunn took Vocal Duo of the Year. The 60th annual CMA Awards will be broadcast live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on November 18 on ABC and Disney+, with a Hulu replay the following day.
Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.