In the vibrant world of country music, where personal stories and regional pride often intertwine, Miranda Lambert delivered a standout moment during her recent concert at Lucas Oil Live in Thackerville, Oklahoma, on December 26, 2025. The Texas-born superstar surprised fans by performing a cover of the rising hit “Choosin’ Texas” for the very first time live—a song she co-wrote but had never sung onstage until that night. With her signature fiery spirit and deep-rooted Lone Star loyalty, Lambert infused the performance with playful defiance, capping it off with an ad-libbed “Dang right he is!” that drew cheers from the crowd and highlighted her unapologetic pride in her home state.
The song, originally recorded and released by breakout artist Ella Langley in October 2025, quickly became a chart-topping sensation, dominating country radio and earning accolades for its catchy melody and relatable heartbreak narrative. Langley, an Alabama native with a rowdy edge, crafted the track during a writing retreat alongside Lambert, Luke Dick, and Joybeth Taylor. Lambert not only contributed to the lyrics but also provided background vocals and co-produced the single with Ben West, marking a meaningful collaboration that showcased her mentorship of emerging talent. The origins of “Choosin’ Texas” add a layer of charm: it stemmed from Lambert sharing a wild anecdote from her younger days, sparking the iconic hook that celebrates (and gently ribs) Texas allure.
Lambert’s decision to debut her live rendition just across the Red River in Oklahoma felt like perfect timing. Thackerville, home to the massive WinStar World Casino and Resort, draws crowds from both states, creating a friendly rivalry atmosphere. As a proud Texan who frequently nods to her roots in albums like her 2024 release Postcards From Texas, Lambert couldn’t resist claiming the song onstage. Her performance was stripped-down and authentic, emphasizing the lyrics’ clever wordplay about a cowboy inevitably drawn to a Texas girl. Fans captured the moment on video, noting how Lambert’s grin and emphatic delivery turned the cover into a personal anthem, blending vulnerability with humor.
Miranda Lambert has long been a powerhouse in country music, known for her bold songwriting and unfiltered honesty. Born in Longview, Texas, she burst onto the scene with her 2005 debut Kerosene, establishing herself as a trailblazer for female artists with hits like “Gunpowder & Lead” and “The House That Built Me.” Her career boasts numerous awards, including multiple ACM and CMA honors, and she’s celebrated for empowering anthems that resonate with women navigating love, loss, and independence. Collaborations have been a hallmark of her work, from Pistol Annies with Ashley Monroe and Angaleena Presley to supporting newer voices like Langley.
Ella Langley, on the other hand, represents the fresh wave of country talent. Her gritty vocals and honky-tonk style have propelled “Choosin’ Texas” to massive success, including a No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s narrative—a woman resigned to losing her man to the irresistible pull of Texas—mirrors classic country themes of heartbreak and regional identity. Langley’s rapid rise, fueled by tours and high-profile performances, has been bolstered by Lambert’s endorsement, with the veteran star praising her “rowdy, fiery side” that aligns with Texas women.
The collaboration’s backstory adds whimsy: during the retreat, Lambert’s humorous tale inspired the core phrase, leading to a quick composition that captured heartfelt emotion with upbeat twang. Lambert’s involvement extended beyond writing; her background harmonies and production touches helped shape the track’s polished yet raw sound, featuring steel guitar and driving rhythm that evoke line dances and late-night bars.
Lambert’s Oklahoma performance underscored her connection to fans across state lines. The crowd at Lucas Oil Live, a premier venue known for hosting top acts, erupted in enthusiasm, appreciating the nod to cross-border banter. Social media buzzed with clips of the moment, fans praising Lambert’s ownership of the co-write and her playful twist on the chorus. It was a reminder of country music’s communal spirit, where artists lift each other up and celebrate shared heritage—even when poking fun at rival states.
This live debut also highlighted Lambert’s ongoing evolution. Fresh off promoting Postcards From Texas, which revisited her hell-raising origins, she continues to blend nostalgia with contemporary edge. Performing “Choosin’ Texas” live for the first time felt like reclaiming a piece of her creative input, turning a rising hit into a personal statement. For Langley, it amplified the song’s reach, with Lambert’s stamp adding credibility and excitement.
In an industry often dominated by formulaic releases, moments like this stand out for their authenticity. Lambert’s cover bridged generations of country fans, honoring a new voice while asserting her enduring influence. As “Choosin’ Texas” continues its chart dominance, this Oklahoma surprise has become a cherished highlight, embodying the joy, pride, and camaraderie that make country music enduring.
