Key Takeaways
- Ella Langley's song 'Choosin’ Texas' was named song of the year.
- Riley Green was honored as songwriter-artist of the year.
- Blake Pendergrass received songwriter of the year for his work on '20 Cigarettes' and 'Just in Case'.
At the ninth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards, held on September 22, 2026, at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, several songwriters were recognized for their contributions to the country music scene.
Ella Langley, alongside Miranda Lambert, Joybeth Taylor, and Luke Dick, was honored for her song 'Choosin’ Texas', which was named song of the year. During the event, Langley performed the song with Taylor and Dick, expressing gratitude to her songwriting partners.
Riley Green, who recently released his new album 'That’s Just Me', was named songwriter-artist of the year. Green, in his acceptance speech, highlighted the importance of songwriting in his career and paid tribute to his late grandfather Buford, a witty songwriter in his own right.
Blake Pendergrass was honored as songwriter of the year for his work on songs including '20 Cigarettes' and 'Just in Case', both of which were featured in the '10 Songs I Wish I’d Written' segment of the awards ceremony.
During the event, Langley also performed 'Be Her' with HARDY, Jordan Schmidt, and Smith Ahnquist, showcasing her versatility as a songwriter and performer.
The Nashville Songwriter Awards, organized by the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), celebrates the creativity and talent of songwriters who have contributed significantly to the country music genre.
The event brought together a diverse group of songwriters, artists, and industry professionals, highlighting the collaborative nature of the music industry and the importance of strong songwriting in creating hit songs.
The awards ceremony also featured performances by Riley Green and Hannah McFarland, who performed 'Don’t Mind If I Do', one of the songs recognized as one of the '10 Songs I Wish I’d Written'.
I think it really is a testament to believing in your people.
Ella Langley, Songwriter
I’m really honored to be here tonight with all you great songwriters and publishers and everyone involved in country music.
Riley Green, Artist and Songwriter
