The winner of the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards’ New Country Artist of the Year gave thanks to Jesus for the passion He put in her heart as she humbly accepted her award on stage. Alabama-native Ella Langley, just 26, took over the country music scene with her hit single ‘Choosin’ Texas’ and has never looked back.
Speaking on stage with her trademark long, thick brunette hair and somewhat revealing, albeit tasteful dress, Langley sounded surprisingly grounded despite her fame and accolades. “You know, 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 admitted.
Then, her speech took a turn that many around the country music scene in particular appreciate, a nod to the heavenly host. “Thank you Jesus for putting this passion in 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,” she added.
Finally, in her speech Langley inserted a bit of humor as she acknowledged that the years of practice included many loud sessions that were tolerated, and indeed supported, by her family. “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,” she finished.
Langley originates from the community of Hope Hull in Alabama. At a young age, she began singing in her Baptist church and was inspired by her musical grandfather, whom she would sit next to at the piano. After he passed as a teenager, she then took up the guitar and was largely self-taught in chords and progressions. Entering high school, she continued to develop her singing and performed publicly whenever she had the chance.
Her music, for those that have not listened, can best be described as a mixture of country-style storytelling through song and influences of rock-centered sounds. Given her age and experiences, it makes sense that the themes she explores touch on heartbreak and personal independence. Despite singing about vulnerability as a young woman, part of her rise to fame can be attributed to a striking confidence on stage performing in front of tens of thousands. Indeed, the composure and groundedness she exuded in her acceptance speech are a nod to that confidence.
Reacting to the video, users on the internet likewise celebrated her open faith.” This is always so great to see on a stage such as this,” one comment said. “I pray that Jesus continues to bless her gift,” said another. Touching on her Alabama Baptist roots, another added: “You can tell she’s from the south.”
Featured image (cropped): BrDen, CC BY 4.0