NSAI CEREMONY CELEBRATES 2026 TOP SONGWRITERS

The Nashville Songwriters Association International held its annual ceremony last night (September 22) in Nashville. The music industry came together for one of the most memorable celebrations yet, featuring incredible performances from artists including Ashley McBryde, Chris Stapleton, Vincent Mason, Rickey Skaggs, and Rodney Crowell, as well as emotional speeches and record-breaking moments at the famed Ryman Auditorium.

The main award of the evening, Song of the Year, was presented to “Choosin’ Texas,” which continues to shatter records across the globe. Songwriters Luke Dick, Miranda Lambert, Joybeth Taylor, and Ella Langley continue to have their lives changed by the song that keeps on giving.

Additional winners include:
Songwriter of the Year – Blake Pendergrass
Songwriter-Artist of the Year – Riley Green
Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award – Vince Gill
NSAI President’s Keystone Award – Paul Williams
Legendary Song – “The Gambler” (by Don Schlitz)

10 Songs I Wish I’d Written:
“20 Cigarettes” (Morgan Wallen)
“Bar None” (Jordan Davis)
“Backseat Driver” (Kane Brown)
“Be Her” (Ella Langley)
“Country Song Came On” (Luke Bryan)
“Don’t Mind if I Do” (Riley Green featuring Ella Langley)
“I’m The Problem” (Morgan Wallen)
“Just In Case” (Morgan Wallen)
“Somewhere Over Laredo” (Lainey Wilson)
“The Fall” (Cody Johnson)
“Weren’t For The Wind” (Ella Langley)