Aldean Drops New Album, ACM Nods Shake Up, and a Chart Record Falls

April 24, 2026

Here’s what country fans are talking about heading into the weekend: a fresh full-length from Jason Aldean, women leading the ACM nominations, a slow-burn radio hit finally hitting No. 1, and a big Nashville milestone at the Hall of Fame.

If you’ve been busy this week, no worries—I’ve got you. Here are the country headlines you need to know right now.

Jason Aldean releases “Songs About Us” today (April 24)

New music Friday got a major jolt: Jason Aldean’s new album Songs About Us is officially out today, April 24, 2026. He’d already teased the project with a handful of early drops, but the full album is here now—perfect timing if you’re building that weekend playlist.

And if you’re thinking bigger than earbuds, Aldean also has his “Songs About Us” summer tour on the calendar for 2026.

ACM nominations are in—and women lead the way

The Academy of Country Music revealed nominations for the 61st ACM Awards on April 9, 2026, and this year’s list is packed with big moments. Megan Moroney, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, and Lainey Wilson are among the top nominees, with plenty of familiar names right behind them.

The 61st ACM Awards are set for May 17, 2026, at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas—so yeah, we’re officially on awards-season watch.

Justin Moore hits No. 1 after a record climb on Country Airplay

This one is wild in the best way: Justin Moore’s “Time’s Ticking” reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart dated April 11, 2026—after a 67-week climb. That’s the kind of slow-and-steady radio story you just don’t see every day.

It’s a good reminder that sometimes a song doesn’t explode overnight—it just keeps showing up, week after week, until it’s everybody’s favorite.

Country Music Hall of Fame marks 20 million visitors

One more Nashville note worth a tip of the hat: the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrated its 20 millionth visitor (since moving downtown in 2001). Trisha Yearwood was on hand for the milestone on April 15, 2026—pretty fitting, considering her long history in Music City.