Ella Langley gave country music fans exactly why she’s become one of the genre’s brightest new stars when she stepped onto the CMA Fest 2026 stage for a performance that quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the nationally televised special. Instead of showcasing just one fan favorite, Langley surprised the crowd by performing both of her massive hits, “Be Her” and “Choosin’ Texas,” turning her appearance into an unforgettable back-to-back showcase of the music that has fueled her meteoric rise.
Dressed in a stunning white mini dress featuring delicate floral details, flowing sleeves, and matching white boots, the Alabama native brought effortless confidence and modern Southern style to Nashville’s Nissan Stadium. From the moment she appeared under the lights, it was clear the audience was ready for something special.
Langley opened her set with “Be Her,” the song that recently became the fifth chart-topping single of her career. As she moved confidently across the massive stage, she poured emotion into every lyric, telling the relatable story of longing to become the version of yourself that seems to have life perfectly figured out. The performance blended vulnerability with undeniable star power, drawing fans deeper into every word.
Then came the moment that sent the stadium into another level of excitement.
The opening notes of “Choosin’ Texas” rang through the speakers, and thousands of fans instantly erupted into cheers. Co-written and produced alongside country superstar Miranda Lambert, producer Ben West, and songwriters Luke Dick and Joybeth Taylor, the chart-topping hit transformed Nissan Stadium into one giant singalong. With her signature grit, authenticity, and commanding stage presence, Langley delivered the heartbreak anthem with the confidence of an artist fully embracing her moment.
Both performances were filmed during the opening night of CMA Fest 2026 and featured as part of the three-hour CMA Fest presented by SoFi television special, co-hosted by Riley Green and Lara Spencer. The broadcast also showcased performances from some of country music’s biggest names, including Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan, Tim McGraw, Jelly Roll, Jason Aldean, Zach Top, HARDY, Cody Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman, Carly Pearce, The Red Clay Strays, Jordan Davis, Brothers Osborne, Shaboozey, Tucker Wetmore, Gretchen Wilson, Ricky Skaggs, Molly Tuttle, Stephen Wilson Jr., Russell Dickerson, Michael McDonald, Deana Carter, Florida Georgia Line, The Band Perry, Fetty Wap, and Shay Morgan.
For Ella Langley, however, this wasn’t simply another television appearance. It was another defining chapter in a career that’s accelerating at remarkable speed. By delivering two of the biggest songs in country music back to back with poise, emotion, and unmistakable charisma, she reminded everyone watching that her breakout moment is no longer coming.
It’s already here.