The 2025 ACM Awards may still be days away, but Ella Langley and Riley Green are already celebrating big wins—and in the most unexpected way. While performing their hit duet “You Look Like You Love Me” at Country Thunder in Tampa on May 2, the duo got a surprise video message from none other than Reba McEntire herself.

The country legend (and 18-time ACM Awards host!) popped up on screen mid-performance to deliver the news: Ella and Riley had officially won Visual Media of the Year for the music video of their flirty, chart-topping duet. The moment caught the crowd—and the artists—completely off guard in the best way.

“Sorry to interrupt, but I have some big news,” Reba said in the clip. “Congratulations to Ella and Riley! Can’t wait to celebrate with you both in Frisco!”

For Ella, the surprises just keep coming. Just a week earlier, she found out she’d won New Female Artist of the Year while on stage at Rock the Country in Knoxville. That announcement came via another video message—this time from her close friend and collaborator, Miranda Lambert. Miranda called Langley her “soul sister in country music,” passing the torch nearly two decades after winning the same award herself.

With two ACM Awards already in the bag, Langley heads into the official ceremony as the most-nominated artist of the night. She’s still in the running for Female Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Song of the Year, and Music Event of the Year—all tied to her red-hot duet with Riley Green. And yes, both artists are nominated as songwriters on “You Look Like You Love Me,” too.

The twangy, slow-burning track has already made major waves—hitting No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, cracking the Top 10 on Hot Country Songs, and even landing in the Top 40 of the Hot 100.

Don’t miss the full celebration! The 60th ACM Awards air live on May 8, streaming globally on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch. The show kicks off at 8 p.m. ET from the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, and runs for two-and-a-half hours of pure country magic.

Ella Langley and Riley Green made major waves at the 2024 CMA Awards, not just with their steamy live duet of “You Look Like You Love Me,” but by snagging the award for Musical Event of the Year.

Their performance wasn’t your typical awards show moment — it was a full-on vibe. Langley kicked things off right from her seat in the crowd, wearing a stunning black sheer outfit with feather details. As she sang the opening lines, she playfully reached out and tapped Michael Trotter Jr.’s cowboy hat, already drawing the audience into her story. She made her way up to a bar-themed stage setup, where barstools and beer bottles helped set the mood.

Then came Riley Green, stepping out from the crowd in classic country fashion: jeans, white shirt, black suede jacket, cowboy hat, and acoustic guitar in hand. He joined Langley on stage, and the two traded verses before locking into soulful, sultry harmonies on the chorus. Their chemistry was electric, and the crowd was hooked.

Co-written by Langley, Green, and Aaron Raitiere, “You Look Like You Love Me” has become one of Langley’s most-streamed songs and is featured on her debut album Hungover. The song feels like a modern waltz — equal parts flirtation and longing — and fans have clearly fallen in love with it.

Ahead of the show, Green reflected on the track’s success: “I’ve been a fan of Ella for a while,” he told CMA. “It’s been wild watching the song take on a life of its own — fans were singing it at shows before it even hit the Top 10.”

Langley, meanwhile, still finds the song’s rise a bit surreal. “I wrote it as a joke, thinking it might never leave my notebook,” she told Entertainment Tonight. “Now it’s changing my life.”

That momentum isn’t slowing down — Langley is set to join Green on his Damn Country Music Tour in 2025, where they’ll no doubt bring more unforgettable performances to fans across the country.

The 2024 CMA Awards were packed with unforgettable performances and collaborations, from Post Malone and Chris Stapleton’s emotional “California Sober” to Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan’s powerful “Cowboys Cry Too.” But Langley and Green’s duet stood out not just for the vocals, but for the story it told — one that’s clearly still being written.

@rfdtv

@Ella Langley performs “you look like you love me” live in Nashville, TN #ellalangley #youlooklikeyouloveme #rileygreen #livemusic #nashville #musiccity

♬ you look like you love me – Ella Langley & Riley Green

Lainey Wilson isn’t rushing to tie the knot — and she’s playfully making her fiancé, Devlin “Duck” Hodges, wait just like he made her wait for the proposal.

The couple got engaged back in February, after dating quietly since 2021. They only made their relationship public at the 2023 ACM Awards.

Devlin popped the question in a super special way — right on the porch of George Jones’ old home in Tennessee. Lainey shared that they’d been wanting to visit the house for a while, and it turned out one of Devlin’s friends was selling it. What was supposed to be a casual visit turned into a magical surprise with candles and photos waiting for her at the door.

Devlin’s thoughtful proposal made the wait worth it, especially since Lainey joked before that she might have to propose herself because he was taking so long!

Now, Lainey told Country Living she hasn’t started wedding plans yet — and she’s teasing that Devlin will have to be patient just like she was.

“He’s gonna kill me,” she laughed, “but I’m gonna make him wait. He made me wait four years, so now it’s his turn.”

Despite the jokes, Lainey says they want to take their time and plan a wedding that’s perfect and meaningful.

“We’re taking it slow,” she said, “so when the day comes, it’s beautiful and exactly what it should be about.”

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Rising country star Ella Langley is turning heads with her bold voice and honest songs. But when she recently performed “Cowgirls Don’t Cry,” she showed she’s just as skilled at honoring country music’s roots as she is at shaping its future. This 2008 Brooks & Dunn hit, originally featuring Reba McEntire, wasn’t just a cover for Ella—it was a powerful statement about strength, identity, and resilience.

At her sold-out Dusty Boots Festival show in Texas, Ella took the stage bathed in soft light and gave the song a fresh, heartfelt spin. Her voice, smoky and full of Southern soul, captured the song’s core message: no matter what life throws at you, a cowgirl keeps pushing forward.

Wearing a simple denim jacket, black boots, and her trademark wide-brimmed hat, Ella kept it real—no flashy moves, just pure emotion. When she sang “Cowgirl, don’t cry,” her voice cracked slightly at first, then settled into a smooth, soulful flow. The mostly quiet crowd soon grew louder, many singing along with her.

“Cowgirls Don’t Cry” tells a story of tough love and resilience passed down through generations—a woman learning early to be strong and face life head-on. For Ella, this song felt deeply personal, reflecting her own journey as a woman making her mark in country music’s traditionally male world.

After the show, Ella opened up about how the song inspired her since she was a teenager. “It’s always stuck with me—the way it talks about staying strong even when everything feels like it’s falling apart,” she said. “That’s something I’ve had to live, both in life and in my music career.”

Fans couldn’t get enough of her performance, with clips quickly going viral on TikTok and Instagram. Many praised her simple, honest approach that honored both the past and the present. One fan wrote, “Ella Langley didn’t just sing the song—she made it her own.”

With hits like “Damn You” and “Paint the Town Blue,” Ella is building a reputation for mixing modern stories with classic country spirit. By choosing “Cowgirls Don’t Cry” for her set, she didn’t just tip her hat to her influences—she firmly planted herself in their legacy.

Ella Langley may be new to some, but performances like this prove she’s not here to follow the crowd—she’s here to blaze her own trail, one powerful lyric at a time.

What was meant to be a fun night celebrating country music stars quickly turned into a real-life drama when Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, and Gwen Stefani unexpectedly crossed paths on the CMA red carpet.

A Quiet but Tense Moment
As the three came face to face for the first time in years, the atmosphere grew instantly tense. Miranda wore a calm, tight smile. Gwen looked polite but a little uncomfortable. And Blake? His stunned, wide-eyed expression said more than words ever could.

Fans nearby caught the moment on their phones, whispering excitedly—it felt like a scene straight out of a TV drama, but this was happening live.

A Seating Mix-Up or Something More?
Insiders say the seating arrangements were changed at the last minute. But was it just a simple mistake or a deliberate move? The timing and reactions made many wonder if it was planned to stir up some tension.

Blake’s Reaction Takes Over Social Media
Blake’s surprised look quickly became a viral meme. Social media buzzed with jokes about a “country music showdown” and guesses about whether old feelings were resurfacing.

More Than Just Music on This Night
Is there still some unfinished business between the trio? Or was it just an awkward encounter when their worlds collided? Either way, this CMA moment reminded everyone that in country music, sometimes the real drama happens off stage.

Stay tuned — this story might just be getting started.

Gwen Stefani is letting fans in on her peaceful and playful life on the Oklahoma ranch she shares with husband Blake Shelton and her kids. On May 4, she posted a fun 28-second video on social media, showing the whole family out in the fields, prepping the land and planting seeds together.

While Blake and the boys were dressed in camo and ready for work, Gwen showed up in full glam—because, of course she did. Together, they planted beautiful varieties like Tall Teddy Bear Sunflowers, Strawberry Blonde Sunflowers, and Double Click Snow Puff Cosmos. With Weezer’s “Island in the Sun” playing in the background, the clip radiated sunshine, love, and laughter. Gwen captioned it:
“Island in the (country) sun with the fam .”

Nature Walks, Mushroom Hunts, and Big Laughs
This isn’t the first time Gwen’s shared their laid-back country life. In April 2023, she posted a video of a spontaneous family mushroom hunt. As they wandered the woods, Gwen couldn’t believe how many mushrooms they found. “Oh my gosh, Blake! They’re everywhere,” she said, while Blake joked, “You better Instagram this.”

Their back-and-forth showed fans just how fun and down-to-earth their relationship really is.

Life on the Ranch: Simple, Sweet, and Full of Love
Earlier that year, Gwen posted another look into their daily life—this time at Blake’s Ten Point Ranch in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. The video, set to Lizzy McAlpine’s “Ceilings,” showed Gwen walking through the property, hopping in the truck with Blake, and enjoying peaceful moments together on their 1,300-acre slice of heaven.

One funny moment? Gwen nearly tripping in her boots while jogging near a riverbank—only to laugh it off and flash a peace sign at the camera. The video ends with sweet selfies and Blake hugging Gwen from behind, showing just how natural and in-sync they are as a couple.

Prioritizing What Matters Most
With Blake wrapping up his final season on The Voice and stepping away from touring, he’s spending more time at home—and loving it. He told PEOPLE that his focus is now on family and slowing down.

“We’ve done the work, the traveling, the shows. Now I’m happy to put on sweatpants at 6 p.m. and binge-watch Ozark eight times.”

Blake has also been vocal about his love for Gwen’s three sons—Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo—and wanting to be present as a stepdad.

“If I walked away from my career now, the only regret I’d have is missing out on more time with the kids. This isn’t about me anymore. It never will be again.”

Celebrating Love and the Simple Life
This July, Gwen and Blake will mark their second wedding anniversary. They tied the knot in a small, heartfelt ceremony on July 3, 2021, right on their ranch, with their friend Carson Daly officiating. After meeting on The Voice back in 2014 and going public with their relationship in 2015, they got engaged in 2020—and never looked back.

From Hollywood red carpets to sunflower seeds in Oklahoma soil, Gwen and Blake prove that love, laughter, and a little dirt under your nails make for the best kind of happily ever after.

@gwenstefani

pov 😂

♬ ceilings – Sped Up Version – Lizzy McAlpine

June 7 | Nashville, TN — A night full of music, memories, and meaning.

John Foster, the 19-year-old American Idol Season 23 runner-up from Louisiana, made his long-awaited Grand Ole Opry debut—and let’s just say, he didn’t just perform, he delivered. With a voice that blends old-school country soul and heartfelt emotion, Foster made his first night on the legendary stage one fans won’t soon forget.

A Moment That Gave Everyone Chills
Foster’s debut featured two powerful songs: the spiritual classic “How Great Thou Art” and the bold country statement “Murder on Music Row.” Both were performed with raw honesty, but it was his soul-stirring version of the hymn that left the Opry crowd silent and teary-eyed—it felt less like a performance and more like a personal prayer.

A Song with Deep Roots
There was something extra special about hearing John sing “How Great Thou Art”—a song made iconic by American Idol legend and judge Carrie Underwood. Singing it on the very stage he once dreamed about as a kid made the moment feel full circle—and deeply personal.

From the Second Row to Center Stage
Not long ago, John was just a teenager in the audience at the Opry, watching legends perform and dreaming big. This week, that dream became reality. He shared a heartfelt message on Instagram:

“There’s no holier ground for country music lovers than the Grand Ole Opry. I’ve dreamed of this for as long as I can remember. And because of you all, that dream just came true.”

And the crowd? Absolutely electric. Fans—old and new—rose to their feet, giving him a standing ovation he’ll never forget.

A Night Full of “Pinch Me” Moments
Backstage, the night got even more surreal when John met Eddie Baird, the only drummer ever inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. For John, it was the kind of full-circle, “I can’t believe this is real” moment that made the night even more unforgettable.

More Than Just a Song
During his set, John opened up about what songwriting really means to him:

“It’s not just about lyrics and melodies. It teaches you how to feel, how to connect with people. Music is my way of understanding the world—and myself.”

Humble Beginnings, Big Future
It’s hard to believe that just a year ago, Foster was graduating high school as valedictorian. Now, he’s standing in the famous Opry circle, stepping into the spotlight with the grace of someone twice his age—but never losing sight of where he came from.

He’s not the only Idol star making moves—fellow Season 23 finalist Breanna Nix also made her Opry debut recently, proving that this Idol class is one to watch.

A Star on the Rise
With one foot firmly planted in country tradition and the other stepping confidently into the future, John Foster’s Opry debut wasn’t just a performance—it was a promise. The next chapter of his journey has officially begun, and if this night was any sign, country music’s future just got a lot brighter.

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In a moment that left fans swooning and social media buzzing, 18-year-old American Idol sensation John Foster has announced his engagement to his longtime love, Emily Sanders—his high school sweetheart and, in his own words, “the reason I sing.”

John may have stolen America’s heart with his soulful country voice, but now, it’s his real-life love story that’s stealing the spotlight.

A Surprise That Melted the Internet
On a quiet Wednesday morning, Foster made a major announcement that no one saw coming—he’s getting married!

In an exclusive chat with People, John couldn’t hide his excitement:
“Yes, it’s true—we’re getting married. Emily’s been my rock since the beginning. I can’t wait to spend forever with her.”

Within minutes, fans had #JohnsRoyalWedding trending, and social media exploded with love—fan art, congratulations, and even shoutouts from American Idol judges and country music stars. It was the kind of moment that felt straight out of a movie—or, in this case, a country song.

A Love Story with Southern Roots
John and Emily’s relationship goes all the way back to their freshman year in small-town Alabama. They bonded over music, faith, and late-night diner milkshakes. She was there for every school talent show and front-row at every local gig—even before the bright lights of American Idol came calling.

“John and Emily have always been inseparable,” says best friend Tyler Greene. “She’s been his person since day one.”

While John’s career took off, Emily stayed his constant—supportive, grounded, and never far from his side. Their bond, built on trust, family, and faith, never wavered.

A Proposal Full of Heart
When it came time to pop the question, John kept it simple and meaningful. He rented out the little diner where they had their first date, added candles, live guitar, and a whole lot of love.

“She was already crying before I even got the words out,” John joked. “It was just us. No stage. No cameras. Just the two of us.”

Emily later shared, “It felt like time stopped. He’s always dreamed of singing to the world. Now, we get to build a life together.”

Planning a Wedding with Country Charm
Though they’re keeping the details private for now, John teased that their wedding will be a perfect mix of Southern tradition and stardust.

“There’ll be boots, gospel choirs, barbecue—and maybe a little sparkle too,” his mom, Linda, said with a smile.

Rumor has it the guest list might include American Idol judges, Nashville stars, and plenty of hometown friends. But for John and Emily, the focus isn’t on the guest list or glam.

“This is about where we started and where we’re headed,” John said. “Just love. That’s what matters most.”

A Future Full of Music and Meaning
Stars from all over sent their love—Katy Perry tweeted, “True love always wins. Can’t wait for the big day!” while Luke Bryan chimed in with, “Wishing y’all a life full of No. 1 hits—and happiness.”

Fans are calling their romance “a real-life country song,” and honestly, it’s hard to disagree.

John’s got a platinum single, a national tour, and now, a forever partner. But those closest to him say fame hasn’t changed a thing.

“He still prays before shows, writes lyrics in the same old notebook, and dances in the kitchen with Emily like nobody’s watching,” a family friend shared.

As for Emily, she’s ready for this next chapter: “He’s always been the love of my life. And now I get to be his wife.”

When John Foster stepped onto the stage to perform Keith Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” something magical happened. This wasn’t just another cover—it was a heartfelt tribute that felt deeply personal and entirely timeless. The country classic, long known for its raw portrayal of longing and heartbreak, found new life in Foster’s hands.

A Voice That Feels the Words

From the very first note, Foster didn’t just sing the song—he lived it. There’s a quiet strength in the way he delivers each line, like he’s pulling straight from his own story. Keith Whitley’s original has always been a staple for country fans, but Foster’s version brings a fresh vulnerability, reminding us why this song still speaks to the heart decades later.

Emotion Over Flash

Foster isn’t about flash or overproduction. His performance is stripped down and sincere—just him, a gentle guitar, and the weight of the words. That simplicity is powerful. It allows every note, every pause, every whispered lyric to land exactly where it should: right in the listener’s heart.

Connecting Through Story

What makes Foster so special is the way he connects with his audience. He doesn’t perform at them—he brings them in. Listening to him sing “Don’t Close Your Eyes” feels like sitting across from a friend who’s finally ready to open up. There’s honesty in his voice, and that honesty is what pulls people in and keeps them there.

A Tribute with Heart

Rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, Foster chooses to honor Whitley’s original. He keeps the soul of the song intact but adds just enough of his own experience to make it feel new. It’s a delicate balance, and he nails it. It’s clear Foster respects the history of the song, and his performance acts as a bridge between generations of country fans.

Moments That Stay With You

When Foster hits the line, “Don’t close your eyes, let it be me,” you can feel the crowd holding its breath. There’s no big production, no vocal tricks—just a man standing still and singing his truth. And sometimes, that’s all it takes to create a moment that stays with you long after the music stops.

Country Music’s Future, Rooted in Its Past

This performance is yet another reminder that John Foster is quickly becoming one of country music’s most promising storytellers. He’s not chasing trends—he’s chasing truth. Whether he’s singing his own songs or honoring legends like Whitley, Foster proves that honest storytelling will never go out of style.

A Performance That Feels Like Home

In the end, John Foster’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes” doesn’t just feel like a tribute—it feels like coming home. Warm, emotional, and full of quiet power, it’s a version that invites you to listen closely, feel deeply, and maybe even heal a little along the way.

@officialjohnfoster

One of the best to ever do it – Mr. Keith Whitley. #classiccountryisthebestcountry #keithwhitley

♬ original sound – John Foster

Some singers don’t need big stage lights or flashy effects to make their mark — they just need a story to tell and the heart to tell it. That’s exactly what John Foster brings to the table. Since his American Idol debut, fans have been drawn to his emotional depth and unfiltered honesty. And in his stirring rendition of Travis Tritt’s classic “Anymore,” Foster proves again that vulnerability is his greatest strength.

A Song That Hits Home
The moment Foster begins to sing “Anymore,” something shifts. His voice doesn’t shout — it aches. There’s a quiet heaviness in his tone, like he’s sharing something he’s held onto for too long. The performance isn’t just technically good — it feels deeply personal. You can hear every crack of emotion as if he’s telling his own story through every lyric.

@qtmandyyy

#johnfostermusic #johnnyfoster #wedontowntherightstothismusic #travistritt

♬ original sound – Amanda

This isn’t just a cover. It’s a moment of truth.

“I Can’t Hide It Anymore” — And Neither Can He
As Foster reaches the chorus, the song swells — not with sound, but with feeling. “I can’t hide the way I feel about you anymore,” he sings, and it lands like a gut punch. The stripped-back acoustic style gives him room to breathe between lines, making each word hit even harder. It’s tender. It’s aching. And it’s real.

From Covers to Original Heartbreakers
This emotional honesty isn’t new for Foster. It’s what made his original ballad, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” such a show-stopping moment during the American Idol 2025 finale. While “Anymore” is about finally admitting love that’s been buried, “Tell That Angel I Love Her” feels like a final goodbye wrapped in warmth and grace.

Foster doesn’t over-sing or dramatize. Instead, he lets the lyrics do the talking. His voice, calm but full of meaning, carries a quiet strength — the kind that can only come from someone who’s felt the weight of goodbye and still found peace on the other side.

A New Voice with an Old Soul
In a time when so much of music feels polished to perfection, John Foster reminds us that the heart of country music is still beating. He brings back the honesty, the simplicity, and the emotion that made so many fall in love with the genre in the first place.

Whether he’s covering a country legend or sharing his own words, Foster doesn’t just sing — he tells stories. Stories about love that lingers, pain that doesn’t fade, and the hope that somehow finds its way through.

And maybe that’s why fans can’t get enough. Because when John Foster sings, it’s not about the spotlight. It’s about the feeling — raw, real, and unforgettable.