Alabama acts make an impression on pop world at American Music Awards

The American Music Awards in Las Vegas provided a big stage for Alabama talent this past Monday. While the evening was a mix of results for our home-grown stars, the state certainly left its mark on the multi-genre, fan-voted event.

Langley Leads the Way

Hope Hull’s own Ella Langley entered the night with five nominations, including major nods for New Artist of the Year and Song of the Year. Coming off a massive seven-trophy sweep at the Academy of Country Music Awards, Langley continued to prove her staying power. While global acts like Katseye took home New Artist of the Year and the song “Golden” claimed Song of the Year, Langley secured two significant wins of her own: Best Female Country Artist and Best Country Song for her record-breaking hit “Choosin’ Texas.”

Green Takes the Stage

Jacksonville native Riley Green made his presence felt on the performance stage. Although Morgan Wallen took home the trophy for Best Male Country Artist, Green’s live rendition of “Worst Way” captured attention. According to Billboard.com, the performance ranked ninth out of 13, outperforming notable acts such as Keith Urban, Twenty One Pilots, and Billy Idol. Billboard noted that while his choice of a two-year-old song was unconventional, his "smoldering" vocal delivery remained a highlight.

More Alabama Connections

The state’s influence extended to other categories as well. The Zac Brown Band took home the award for Best Country Duo or Group, featuring Alabama native and drummer Chris Fryar.

What’s Next

Both stars have plenty on the horizon. Langley recently shared photos from a trip to the islands, while Green is gearing up to drop a new single, “Think as You Drunk,” this coming Thursday. Looking ahead to June, both artists will also curate exclusive playlists for Apple Music’s “Summertime Sounds 2026” series.

As Country Insider reported, Langley’s “Dandelion Summer” playlist features tracks that inspired her latest album, alongside classics from the Bee Gees and Fleetwood Mac. Meanwhile, Green’s collection focuses on the sounds of home, including influences from Toby Keith and Alan Jackson. "Summer makes me think of home: Alabama, backroads, the lake, cookouts, and those songs that just sound better when it’s hot outside," Green said.