Historic Week for Women in Country Music: Megan Moroney and Ella Langley Top Charts

In a groundbreaking achievement for women in country music, Megan Moroney and Ella Langley have simultaneously topped the Billboard charts. Moroney's debut album, *Cloud 9*, has reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, while Langley's single "Choosin' Texas" has reclaimed the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100. This marks the first time in history that female country artists have led both charts at the same time.

NPRBillboardNew York TimesMegan Moroney Gives Her Ex A Taste Of His Own “Medicine” In Honky Tonk Heater From New Album, ‘Cloud 9’Rolling Stone

Megan Moroney's *Cloud 9*, released on February 20, 2026, sold 147,000 equivalent album units in its opening week, a significant increase from her previous album, which peaked at No. 9. The album's success has been bolstered by exclusive editions sold at major retailers like Target. Meanwhile, Ella Langley's "Choosin' Texas" has proven to be a resilient hit, returning to the top after briefly being displaced by Taylor Swift's "Opalite."

NPR

The simultaneous success of Moroney and Langley is particularly notable given the historical challenges faced by female artists in the country genre. In 2015, country radio consultant Keith Hill controversially referred to female artists as the "tomatoes" in a salad dominated by male artists, highlighting the gender biases prevalent in the industry. The recent achievements of Moroney and Langley suggest a shift in this dynamic, showcasing that there is now room for multiple female voices at the top of the charts.

New York Times

Megan Moroney's *Cloud 9* features a mix of contemporary pop influences and traditional country sounds, including collaborations with artists like Kacey Musgraves and Ed Sheeran. The album includes tracks that reflect personal experiences, such as "Medicine," which addresses themes of heartbreak and empowerment. Ella Langley, on the other hand, is recognized for her traditional country style, with "Choosin' Texas" being co-written by Miranda Lambert, further emphasizing the collaborative spirit among female artists in the genre.

New York Times

Megan Moroney expressed her excitement about the chart success, stating, “I think sometimes we’re taught that there’s only room for a few women at the top... when one of us wins, it stretches the ceiling higher for the next girl watching.” This sentiment reflects a growing recognition of the importance of female representation in country music.

Rolling Stone

Despite the celebratory nature of this achievement, some critics argue that the music industry still has a long way to go in terms of equitable representation for women. The historical context of gender bias in country music remains a point of contention, with ongoing discussions about the need for more consistent support for female artists in radio play and promotional opportunities.

New York Times

As both artists continue to gain momentum, they are set to embark on tours and promotional events. Megan Moroney's *Cloud 9* tour is expected to draw significant attention, further solidifying her place in the country music landscape. The success of Moroney and Langley could pave the way for future female artists, encouraging a more inclusive environment in the genre.

Billboard

• “But music and creating art isn’t a competition for oxygen. I’m positive that when one of us wins, it stretches the ceiling higher for the next girl watching.” — Megan Moroney

Rolling Stone

The achievements of Megan Moroney and Ella Langley represent a significant milestone in the evolution of country music, highlighting the increasing visibility and success of women in the industry.

NPR