Ella Langley's 'Choosin' Texas' Hits No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100

Country star's breakout hit marks a rare feat for a solo female country artist

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Ella Langley's "Choosin' Texas" has reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making the country singer the first unaccompanied solo female country artist to top the all-genre chart in over 50 years. The song's success also marks a major career milestone for its co-writer, country superstar Miranda Lambert, who has never before achieved a top 10 Hot 100 hit as a writer.

Why it matters

Langley's achievement is significant as solo female country artists rarely reach the pinnacle of the Hot 100, with the last such feat occurring decades ago. This underscores the growing crossover appeal of country music and Langley's ability to connect with a wide audience beyond the genre's traditional fanbase.

The details

"Choosin' Texas" has steadily climbed the Hot 100 in recent weeks, edging past Olivia Dean's "Man I Need" to claim the top spot. The song's success is all the more impressive given that it lacks the typical trappings of a Hot 100 No. 1, such as major pop crossover appeal, a viral moment, or a high-profile soundtrack tie-in. Instead, the track's old-school country sound and Langley's captivating vocal performance have resonated with listeners across genres.

  • Langley's "Choosin' Texas" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 dated February 14, 2026.
  • The song previously peaked in the top 5 of the Hot 100 just a few weeks ago.

The players

Ella Langley

A rising country music star whose breakout hit "Choosin' Texas" has now reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, a rare feat for a solo female country artist.

Miranda Lambert

A country music superstar who co-wrote and co-produced Langley's "Choosin' Texas." This marks Lambert's first-ever top 10 Hot 100 hit as a songwriter, despite her extensive success as a recording artist.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.