Megan Moroney, Miranda Lambert Lead ACM Awards Nominations

Female artists dominate the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards nominations

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of the shiny, metallic surfaces of country music award statuettes, captured in dramatic studio lighting that highlights the luxurious textures and reflective qualities of the objects.The glamour and prestige of the ACM Awards are on full display in this abstract close-up of the iconic country music trophies.Las Vegas Today

Megan Moroney, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, and Lainey Wilson are among the most nominated artists for the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards, the organization announced today. The awards show will stream live on Prime Video on May 17 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Why it matters

The ACM Awards are one of the biggest annual events in country music, recognizing the top artists, songs, and albums of the past year. The strong showing by female artists in this year's nominations reflects the growing influence and popularity of women in the genre.

The details

Megan Moroney leads all nominees with 9 nods, followed by Miranda Lambert with 8, and Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson tied with 7 each. Chris Stapleton, the reigning Male Artist of the Year, received the most nominations for a male artist with 6, including his fifth consecutive Entertainer of the Year nomination. Other top nominees include Zach Top, Cody Johnson, Riley Green, Morgan Wallen, and Luke Combs.

  • The 61st ACM Awards will stream live on Prime Video on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT/5 p.m. PT.
  • The nominations were announced on April 9, 2026.

The players

Megan Moroney

A rising country music star who leads all nominees with 9 nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, and multiple nominations for her songs and singles.

Miranda Lambert

A veteran country artist and 8-time ACM nominee this year, recognized for her work as a performer, songwriter, and producer.

Ella Langley

A breakout country artist who is tied for the third-most nominations this year with 7, spanning categories like Female Artist of the Year and Song of the Year.

Lainey Wilson

A fast-rising country star who is also tied for the third-most nominations this year with 7, including Entertainer of the Year and Female Artist of the Year.

Chris Stapleton

The reigning Male Artist of the Year, who received the most nominations for a male artist this year with 6, including his fifth consecutive Entertainer of the Year nod.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to celebrate the incredible talent and artistry of this year's ACM nominees. From emerging stars to established icons, the breadth and diversity of country music is on full display.”

— Damon Whiteside, CEO of the Academy of Country Music

What’s next

The 61st ACM Awards will stream live on Prime Video on Sunday, May 17, 2026, featuring performances from many of the nominated artists.

The takeaway

The strong showing of female artists in this year's ACM nominations reflects the growing influence and popularity of women in country music, a genre that has historically been male-dominated. This year's ceremony promises to showcase the depth and diversity of talent across the genre.