Rising country star Avery Anna has been named the 2026 New Female Artist of the Year by the Academy of Country Music, marking a major milestone in her fast-rising career.
The first-time nominee received the honour on Sunday (April 26) following her performance at the Lone Star Smokeout festival in Arlington, Texas. The award was presented on stage by fellow breakout artist and collaborator Sam Barber, adding an extra personal touch to the moment.
Accepting the award, Anna expressed heartfelt gratitude to her fans and supporters, thanking those who have championed her music and allowed her to share her stories. She described the recognition as an honour and reflected on how meaningful it is to connect with listeners who embrace her work.
With the win, Anna joins an impressive list of recent recipients, including Ella Langley, Megan Moroney and Lainey Wilson—artists who have all gone on to become defining voices in modern country.
The award caps off a standout period for Anna, who also delivered multiple buzzworthy performances at this year’s Stagecoach Festival. Among the highlights was a surprise pop-up appearance with Barber, where the pair performed their Platinum-certified 2025 duet “Indigo” to an enthusiastic crowd.
As her momentum continues to build, the ACM win further cements Avery Anna as one of country music’s most exciting new voices—and signals that her breakthrough moment is only just beginning.
