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entertainment1d ago
2026 ACM Awards Nominations: Will the Voters Ever Get It Right?
- The 2026 ACM Awards nominations are led by women Megan Moroney, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley, and Lainey Wilson, with Chris Stapleton closest male rival.
- The New Duo or Group of the Year category is criticized as lacking, with Thelma and James highlighted as an example of missing opportunities.
- Critics argue the New Artist categories exclude rising talents like Kaitlin Butts and Carter Faith due to chart-entry requirements.
- Entertainer of the Year discussion centers on Ella Langley’s impact and crossover hit; Langley is cited as a leading figure.
- The article notes that radio play may not align with nominations, showing Mediabase Top 20 limitations for women.
- Nominations are framed within Rolling Stone’s Nashville Now podcast discussion, inviting hot takes on categories and races.
- The ACM Awards will stream May 17 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Prime Video.
- The piece notes the War and Treaty were excluded, contrasting with Dun or other Davidson acts.
- Sized as a glance at how industry dynamics affect nominations, including industry ownership by Penske Media Corp.
- Rolling Stone’s list positions Moroney as a multi-nominated artist with a strong year ahead.
- The article closes by flagging broader industry questions about radio play, recognition, and audience reach.
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