Country Music's Biggest Night is almost here, and the song categories are stacked. Before the winners are crowned at the 60th Annual CMA Awards, get familiar with the stories and sounds behind the year's most impactful and acclaimed tracks.
Ella Langley - 'Choosin' Texas'
It is impossible
to discuss country music in 2026 without mentioning Ella Langley. With a staggering nine nominations, she is the year's leading artist, and 'Choosin' Texas' is the runaway freight train of a hit that powered her ascent. Nominated for both Single and Song of the Year, this track, co-written with Miranda Lambert, Luke Dick, and Joybeth Taylor, became a global moment for the genre. It's an anthemic, rollicking story of picking roots over romance, and its chart-breaking success makes it the undeniable frontrunner and the song to beat in every category it's in.
Lainey Wilson - 'Somewhere Over Laredo'
Reigning Entertainer of the Year and this year's host, Lainey Wilson is back with 'Somewhere Over Laredo', a cinematic and windswept ballad nominated for Single of the Year. Known for her 'bell bottom country' sound, this track showcases a different side of Wilson, weaving a tale of longing and distance with a creative nod to a classic. It’s a testament to her storytelling prowess and versatility as an artist, proving she can deliver a knockout punch with both high-energy anthems and soulful introspection.
Taylor Swift - 'I Knew It, I Knew You'
In a move that sent waves through the music world, Taylor Swift has returned to her country roots with a nomination for Single of the Year. 'I Knew It, I Knew You', featured in 'Toy Story 5', marks her first CMA nod in years. While Langley’s dominance is the main story, Swift’s return adds a layer of star power and unpredictability. It’s a powerful reminder of her songwriting origins and a wildcard in a category packed with Nashville's contemporary titans. Winning a category she never secured during her original country run would be a history-making moment.
Cody Johnson - 'The Fall'
Representing the neo-traditional corner of country, Cody Johnson's 'The Fall' is a powerhouse vocal performance that landed a well deserved Single of the Year nomination. Johnson has built a career on authentic, rodeo-circuit country, and this song is a perfect encapsulation of his brand. It’s a straightforward, emotionally resonant track about stumbling and getting back up, delivered with the conviction and grit that have made him a fan favorite and a consistent presence in the Male Vocalist of the Year race.
Megan Moroney - 'Beautiful Things'
While she scored a Single of the Year nomination for 'Am I Okay?', it's 'Beautiful Things' that represents Megan Moroney in the prestigious Song of the Year category, which honors the songwriters. This nomination highlights her growing reputation as one of Nashville's sharpest writers. Co-written with Jessi Alexander, Jessie Jo Dillon, and Connie Harrington, the song is a masterclass in vulnerability and clever lyricism. Moroney’s 'emo country' continues to connect, and this nod proves her pen is as mighty as her performance.
Stephen Wilson Jr. - 'Gary'
Perhaps the most intriguing and leftfield nomination for Song of the Year is 'Gary', written solely by Stephen Wilson Jr. In a category dominated by writing teams, a solo written song is a rarity and a major achievement. Wilson Jr., also a New Artist of the Year nominee, has captivated critics with his unique, story driven, and often philosophical approach to country music. 'Gary' is a prime example of his singular voice, and its inclusion celebrates the craft of songwriting in its purest form, making him the dark horse to watch.
