Ella Langley’s 'Choosin’ Texas' Ends Mariah Carey’s 22-Year Billboard Reign

Key points

• The song reached its 23rd week at No. 1, breaking the 22-week record held by Carey’s holiday classic.
• Langley expressed disbelief and gratitude, stating the achievement is 'changing my life' and affecting her family and songwriters.
• The track, co-written with Miranda Lambert, Luke Dick, and Joybeth Taylor, features a traditional Nashville sound with nostalgic influences.
• Langley also leads the 2026 CMA Awards nominations with nine nods, further cementing her industry status.

Background

Our archive indicates this record-breaking milestone was first reported on September 22, 2026, with subsequent coverage confirming the 23-week run. Earlier reports noted the song’s dominance on the Hot Country Songs chart for 41 weeks and sparked debates regarding streaming saturation.

How outlets are covering it

E! Online emphasizes Langley’s emotional reaction and the personal impact of the record, highlighting her disbelief and plans to celebrate. The New York Times focuses on the musical characteristics of the track, describing it as a classic heartsick ballad with nods to George Strait and Ronnie Milsap, and notes its steady No. 1 status since July after an October release. Both outlets agree on the factual milestone but differ in emphasis, with E! focusing on the artist’s response and the NYT on the song’s stylistic context.

Why it matters

This milestone marks a significant shift in pop music history, ending a 22-year era dominated by a holiday classic and highlighting the enduring power of traditional country songcraft in the modern streaming landscape.

What to watch

Carey’s 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' is expected to reclaim the No. 1 spot in November, as it has done annually since 2019. Langley’s continued chart dominance may influence future CMA Awards outcomes.