Ella Langley Extends Historic Country Music Run

Plus, Dolly Parton remains America's most beloved public figure and Zac Brown makes his MLB debut

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of shiny, metallic country music award statuettes under dramatic studio lighting, capturing the luxurious textures and glamour of the genre.The glittering accolades and honors earned by rising country stars like Ella Langley reflect the genre's enduring popularity and cultural significance.Atlanta Today

Country music star Ella Langley continues to make history, as her latest single 'Choosing Texas' has now spent 6 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, extending her record as the longest-running country #1 single by a woman. Meanwhile, a new survey shows Dolly Parton is the most beloved public figure in America, and musician Zac Brown made his debut on Sunday Night Baseball, meeting with legendary sportscaster Bob Costas.

Why it matters

Ella Langley's historic run at the top of the charts demonstrates her growing popularity and influence in the country music genre. Dolly Parton's widespread appeal across political and demographic lines highlights her status as a beloved American icon. Zac Brown's MLB debut represents another high-profile crossover between country music and professional sports.

The details

Ella Langley's new album 'Dandelion' features the hit song 'Choosing Texas,' which has now spent 6 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, the longest run for a country single by a woman. A recent survey by the University of Massachusetts Lowell found that Dolly Parton has the highest favorability score (+65) of any public figure, though 6% of respondents said they had never heard of her. Zac Brown attended a Sunday Night Baseball game at Truist Park in Atlanta to celebrate his debut as the new opening act, and he also met with legendary sportscaster Bob Costas.

  • Ella Langley's 'Choosing Texas' has spent 6 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
  • The University of Massachusetts Lowell survey on public figures' favorability was recently conducted.
  • Zac Brown made his debut as the new Sunday Night Baseball opening act on April 9, 2026.

The players

Ella Langley

A rising country music star whose latest single 'Choosing Texas' has set a new record for the longest-running country #1 single by a woman on the Billboard Hot 100.

Dolly Parton

A legendary country music icon who was found to be the most beloved public figure in America according to a recent survey.

Zac Brown

A popular country musician who made his debut as the new opening act for Sunday Night Baseball, meeting with legendary sportscaster Bob Costas.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This story highlights the continued success and influence of country music artists, from Ella Langley's historic chart performance to Dolly Parton's enduring popularity and Zac Brown's crossover into professional sports. It demonstrates the broad appeal and cultural impact of country music in America.