Ella Langley Shares Tour Essentials, Favorite Binge-Watches, and Celebrity Encounters
Mindy KalingActress, writer, producer, and author of humorous essays on Hollywood and life.
Unveiling the Authentic Ella Langley: Music, Milestones, and the Road Ahead
A Grand Performance at an Iconic Venue
Last weekend, Ella Langley graced the historic Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville for a special, intimate performance. This exclusive event, part of Chase Sapphire Reserve's "Dinner On..." series, transformed the iconic landmark into a unique dining experience. A select group of just over 100 cardmembers enjoyed Langley's private showcase, followed by a gourmet meal crafted by Nashville's Michelin-rated Bastion, and left with custom cowboy boots from Tecovas.
Connecting with the Legendary Grand Ole Opry
For Langley, performing at the Grand Ole Opry in such a distinctive way was an unparalleled opportunity. She expressed the profound significance of the venue, recognizing its storied past and the countless legendary artists who have graced its stage. Langley remarked that the Opry maintains an aura of reverence, a feeling not everyone gets to experience.
Strategic Partnerships: Staying True to Herself
With her growing profile, Langley receives numerous partnership offers. She prioritizes collaborations that allow her to remain authentic to herself, valuing how her fans perceive her. She appreciates working with companies like Chase that respect her artistic integrity, noting the importance of choosing partners who align with her values rather than accepting every opportunity that arises due to her busy schedule.
The Evolution of a Rising Star: From Dreams to Arenas
Reflecting on the past year, Langley acknowledges the significant leap in her career. What once began as a dream of playing in stadiums has evolved into headlining her own arena tours and performing as direct support in major venues. She finds immense joy in witnessing her audience connect with her music on a deeply personal level, a testament to the relatable themes within her songs.
Crafting Relatable Narratives Through Music
Langley attributes the strong connection her fans feel to her music to its authentic and personal nature. She believes that listeners either engage directly with the artist's lived experiences in their songs or process their own emotions through the music. Her album, a blend of both, features tracks like "Loving Life Again," "Broken," and "Somethin' Simple," which explore real-life experiences and aspirations as a 27-year-old woman.
Surprising Celebrity Admirers and Global Reach
Langley is consistently amazed by the unexpected reach of her music and the diverse range of her admirers. From an Uber driver in Japan playing "Choosin' Texas" to celebrity shout-outs from Hailey Bieber and Niall Horan, these moments underscore her expanding global footprint. The most surprising endorsement came from John Mayer, whose appreciation for her artistry affirmed her path and creative choices.
Unwinding and Embracing Simplicity Off-Stage
To decompress from her demanding schedule, Langley finds solace in simple pleasures. Her go-to comfort shows are the American version of "The Office" and "Reba," both offering a sense of calm and familiar humor. Beyond screen time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly riding her newly acquired horses and being with her two dogs. These activities help her reconnect with her authentic self and find grounding.
Tour Essentials: A Touch of Home on the Road
Life on tour demands specific comforts and necessities. Langley's essential travel companions include a good book, her Bible, and coloring books for creative relaxation. Crucially, her dogs are an indispensable part of her touring life. Having them by her side provides a constant reminder of home, offering comfort and companionship for both her and her crew, regardless of where the road takes them.

