Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” has spent 23 weeks atop the all-genre Billboard Hot 100, setting a U.S. record announced Tuesday. It surpassed Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” the previous record-holder with 22 weeks at No. 1.
Luminate reported 911 million on-demand streams in the U.S. and 1.26 billion worldwide by mid-August. Langley had fewer than 1 million monthly Spotify listeners in 2023; she now has more than 32 million. Spotify editor Claire Heinichen said the song reached broader playlists, including “Today’s Top Hits,” and listeners beyond country fans.
Musicologist Nate Sloan said the song’s mellow delivery and cross-genre sound help explain its appeal. Rhodes College professor Charles L. Hughes pointed to its blend of older country influences and contemporary songwriting. Sloan also said its specific heartbreak lyrics and restrained sound differ from the bombastic, anthemic style often associated with major hits.
