Just a couple of years ago, Lainey Wilson made waves in country music when she scored a whopping nine nominations at the 2023 CMA Awards. She went on to win big, taking home trophies for Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year (Bell Bottom Country), Musical Event and Video of the Year for her collaboration with HARDY, “wait in the truck.” It was a breakout moment that put her firmly on the map.
Now, in 2025, it looks like another rising star is stepping into the spotlight—and Lainey couldn’t be more excited about it.
The ACM Award nominations were announced on March 27, and fans were surprised (in the best way) to see newcomer Ella Langley leading the pack with eight nods! Her name now sits right alongside country giants like Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton, and Old Dominion.
Ella earned nominations in some of the biggest categories: Single of the Year, Song of the Year, Music Event of the Year, and Visual Media of the Year—all for her breakout duet “You Look Like You Love Me” with Riley Green. She’s also up for Female Artist of the Year and New Female Artist of the Year.
And the wildest part? This is her first-ever ACM Awards.
It’s a moment that mirrors Lainey’s own rise just a couple years ago, and she’s fully cheering Ella on. At a recent industry event in Nashville celebrating her own latest No. 1 hits, Lainey spoke about how proud she is of her friend.
“I see a lot of myself in Ella,” Lainey said with a smile. “We’re great friends, and I’m just so proud of her. She’s the real deal.”
Lainey went on to describe Ella’s work ethic and spirit, saying, “She shows up, rolls up her sleeves, and she’s ready to knock down barn doors. And in this business, if you don’t have that fire, someone else will knock that door down for you. Ella’s got that fire.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming ACM Awards in Frisco, Texas, Lainey even joked that Ella might sweep the night: “I wouldn’t be surprised if she comes in there with her broom and starts sweeping it up. I’ll be right behind her with the dustpan!”
It’s clear Lainey’s thrilled to see the country community embracing a new female voice with so much grit and talent.
Of course, Lainey’s also bringing her own heat to the awards this year with six nominations, including Female Artist of the Year, Album of the Year (Whirlwind), and Entertainer of the Year—a title she currently holds.
With Ella Langley stepping into the spotlight and Lainey Wilson still blazing her trail, it’s a powerful time for women in country music. And fans are here for every second of it.
