Ella Langley Dazzles in Lacy Black Dress, Grabs Best New Country Artist Trophy at iHeart Awards

Ella Langley had a night to remember at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards. The young country singer from Alabama won the award for Best New Artist (Country), beating out Chase Matthew, Hudson Westbrook, Josh Ross, and Zach Top. She was also the only woman nominated in the category. The award was handed to her on stage by Shaboozey.

Langley said the night felt like a dream. She spent part of the evening sitting between Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus, which left her nearly speechless. “I’m a little loss of words. The thing we’re always trying to do is just get in there and write a good song. So to see what that can do is just wild,” she said.

In her acceptance speech, Langley thanked her faith, her team, and her family for supporting her journey. “Thank you, Jesus, for putting this passion on my heart. Thank you to my team. I would not be the artist I am up here today if it weren’t for them. They helped me make these crazy dreams come true. Thank you to my family for not yelling at me too loud when I practice everything in my room for too long. This is just a dream come true. Thank you, iHeart. Thank you.”

Ella Langley poses with her Best New Country Artist award at the #iHeartAwards2026. pic.twitter.com/wzm37eNjaE

— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 27, 2026

After the show, she spoke with the Associated Press about how exciting it was to see fans respond to her music. “It’s really cool. It’s just awesome. It’s awesome to see that people are getting it, that people are listening to the music, that people are wanting more. That’s exciting for me because it’s what I want to do for the rest of my life, so it’d be terrible if they didn’t. Yes. Well, I think what people like from me is that I’ve never been in a box. I think I’m constantly trying to try new things. I’m learning myself as an artist and I think that they’re just following along with the journey and the story and the songwriting and they’re watching that. They’re watching me become a better songwriter, a better performer, kind of fall into my groove a little bit more along the way.”

Langley’s big win comes just days before the release of her new album, Dandelion, which is set for April 10. The album features her hit song Choosin’ Texas, along with Be Her and Loving Life Again.

At the awards, she wore a black sleeveless dress with a plunging neckline. The dress had lace details and a fitted shape, with a shorter front showing her legs and a longer back for extra style. She paired the look with a delicate necklace and loose waves with bangs, holding her trophy proudly on stage.

Ella Langley is quickly becoming a major name in country music. Winning this award is a big step in her career, and her fans are clearly excited to see what she does next. What do you think about her rise in country music? Share your thoughts in the comments.