This is why country music still hits different… Ella Langley did not just take the stage at CMA Fest — she gave the entire genre a much-needed reminder of why it still cuts straight to the heart. With a performance packed with raw emotion, unmistakable attitude, and the kind of authenticity that cannot be faked, Ella turned her moment in the spotlight into one of the festival’s most powerful statements.

Ella Langley showcased her star power during the CMA Fest presented by SoFi broadcast, delivering standout performances of “Be Her” and “Choosin’ Texas” during the three-hour televised special.

Stepping onto the stage in a white mini dress detailed with a delicate floral pattern, Langley leaned into her signature soft yet modern country aesthetic. The long, flowing sleeves added movement to her performance, while matching white boots completed the look.

During her set, the Alabama native put two of the biggest songs of her career on display. Up first was “Be Her,” which has officially been declared Langley’s fifth chart-topping single of her career.

The songstress made her way from one side of the stage to the other while delivering the infectious tune that finds her looking at someone else’s life and thinking, why can’t that be me? She lays out a candid message, touching on the desire to become the best and most picture-perfect version of herself. What she’s describing is a woman who seems to have it all figured out.

Next up was yet another monumental hit, “Choosin’ Texas,” co-written and produced by Langley with Miranda Lambert, alongside producer Ben West and co-writers Luke Dick and Joybeth Taylor. From the second the opening note filled the speakers, the packed venue of country music fans roared with cheers, igniting a massive sing-along.

Langley’s performance of the No. 1 hit inside Nissan stadium displayed her effortless confidence and signature southern charm as she told bittersweet tale of heartbreak, sung from the perspective of someone realizing the man she loves was never really hers as his heart is firmly rooted in Texas, and with someone else.

Both performances were filmed at the home of the Tennessee Titans during night one of CMA Fest 2026. Ella Langley was among the many artists whose onstage moments have been featured in the three-hour special. CMA Fest presented by SoFi, co-hosted by Riley Green and Lara Spencer, aired Thursday, June 25 at 8/7c on ABC and is available to stream the following day on Hulu.

The special also featured performances from Bailey Zimmerman, Blake Shelton, The Band Perry, Brothers Osborne, Carly Pearce, Cody Johnson, Deana Carter, Fetty Wap, Florida Georgia Line, Gretchen Wilson, HARDY, Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Jordan Davis, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan, Michael McDonald, Molly Tuttle, The Red Clay Strays, Ricky Skaggs, Riley Green, Russell Dickerson, Shaboozey, Shay Morgan, Stephen Wilson Jr., Tim McGraw, Tucker Wetmore, and Zach Top.

SoFi has been named the first-ever broadcast presenting sponsor and Official Bank of CMA Fest, joining the festival in a partnership centered on helping people pursue financial independence through music. As part of the collaboration, SoFi will highlight standout performances, including country icon Deana Carter and the live debut of Shaboozey’s new single, “Cowgirl.”