Big Nominations, Big Charts, and a Fresh Album Week
Here’s what’s making noise in country right now: ACM nominations (heavy on the ladies), a record-setting radio climb, and Ella Langley’s new album landing with a lot of buzz.
If you’ve been busy living life this week, don’t worry—I’ve got you. Here are the biggest country headlines making waves right now.
Women Dominate the 2026 ACM Awards Nominations
The 2026 ACM Awards nominations dropped on Thursday, April 9, and the big headline is simple: the women showed up and showed out. Megan Moroney leads the pack with nine nominations, followed by Miranda Lambert with eight, and Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson with seven each. The 61st ACM Awards are set for May 17 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas—new city, same big spotlight. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/8414b5ad1dac9d1e654c0553ad91741d?utm_source=openai))
Justin Moore Hits No. 1 After a Record-Long Climb
Talk about playing the long game. Justin Moore’s “Time’s Ticking” hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart dated April 11, 2026—after an incredible 67 weeks on the chart. That sets a new record for the slowest climb to the top on that chart, and it’s one of those “radio wins” that feels like everybody had a hand in it. ([rttnews.com](https://www.rttnews.com/amp/3637597/justin-moore-earns-11th-no-1-on-billboard-s-country-airplay-chart-with-time-s-ticking.aspx?utm_source=openai))
Ella Langley’s “Dandelion” Is Out Now
Ella Langley’s sophomore album Dandelion arrived April 10, and it’s already getting plenty of attention—especially with Langley stepping into a bigger moment (and bigger rooms) this year. The Associated Press also published a fresh review of the album ahead of release, adding even more fuel to the conversation around her new era. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dandelion_%28album%29?utm_source=openai))
CMA Salutes the Writers: 2026 Triple Play Awards
And a quick hat tip to the songwriters—because without them, we’ve got nothing to sing along to. The Country Music Association announced the 2026 CMA Triple Play Awards recipients, celebrating writers behind major No. 1 hits. The event took place April 13 in Nashville. ([cmaworld.com](https://www.cmaworld.com/cma-celebrates-songwriting-excellence-with-2026-cma-triple-play-awards/?utm_source=openai))
