Full Breakdown
Avery Anna Wins ACM New Female Artist of the Year
4/29/2026, 1:21:42 PM
Breakthrough to the ACM Spotlight
Avery Anna Rhoton moved to Nashville in 2021, signed with Warner Music Nashville in 2022, and released her debut album *Breakup Over Breakfast* (July 2024), writing all 17 tracks. A bathtub cover of Christina Aguilera’s “Say Something” during the pandemic attracted industry attention and secured management by David Fanning. In March she issued the EP *Forgive, Forget*. By early 2026 she amassed 500 million streams; duet “Indigo” with Sam Barber hit #8 Hot Country Songs and #40 Hot 100, while “Dusty Bibles” with Josiah Queen peaked at #3 Hot Christian Songs.
Award Announcement at Lone Star Smokeout
During her set at Lone Star Smokeout festival in Arlington, Texas, on April 26 2026, Sam Barber stepped onstage and announced that Anna had won Academy of Country Music’s New Female Artist of the Year award. The Academy confirmed the result on April 27 2026, making it first disclosed winner for 61st ACM Awards.
Key Metrics
- EP *Forgive, Forget* (6 tracks, March 13) and debut album *Breakup Over Breakfast* (17 tracks, July 2024).
- “Indigo” (feat. Sam Barber) #8 Hot Country Songs, #40 Hot 100; “Dusty Bibles” (feat. Josiah Queen) #3 Hot Christian Songs.
- 500 million streams; ACM win over runners-up Mackenzie Carpenter, Dasha, Caroline Jones, Emily Ann Roberts.
Significance for Country Music
New Female Artist of the Year category has served as a launchpad for winners Ella Langley and Megan Moroney, who have become figures in the genre. Anna’s win places her among a cohort of women—Langley, Moroney, Lainey Wilson—who dominate 2026 nominations, indicating industry confidence in her relevance.
Official Statements & Responses
Academy’s press release highlighted Anna’s rapid ascent and described early announcement as a strategic move to sustain award-season momentum. Sam Barber called the moment an honor to deliver. Anna’s post-win remarks thanked fans, emphasized her faith, and praised manager David Fanning for his support.
Criticism & Opposition
Some observers described victory as surprising given strong field of established nominees, but no formal criticism of selection process appeared in sources.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on announcement date—one cites April 26 2026 (immediately after Lone Star Smokeout set), another cites April 27 2026 (Academy’s release). ACM’s pre-announcement also leaves remainder of winners list undisclosed until televised ceremony on May 17 2026.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m just so grateful for this, I’m so honored,” — Avery Anna
- “I can’t believe this is real life. Thank you God.” — Avery Anna
- “I’ve had the amazing honor to tell Miss Avery Anna that she is the winner of an ACM New Female Artist of the Year.” — Sam Barber
- “With her family by her side, she insisted, “Everybody that I love dearly is on this stage and this is my family right here.” — Avery Anna
What’s Next
Anna will perform at 61st ACM Awards on May 17 2026 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, streamed live on Prime Video and Twitch. She will also continue her “Girl of Constant Sorrow” tour ahead of ceremony.
