Vince Gill, Chris Stapleton, and More Set for the 2026 Nashville Songwriter Awards at the Ryman

The Nashville Songwriter Awards is back for its ninth year, and this time it’s bringing some of the biggest names in country music to the Ryman Auditorium on September 22. Chris Stapleton, Ashley McBryde, and legendary Americana artist Steve Earle are all performing, along with emerging talents like Jacob Davis, Ray Fulcher, and Ben Johnson. But the real highlight might be Vince Gill receiving the Kris Kristofferson lifetime achievement award, a recognition that celebrates not just his incredible catalog of hits, but his integrity and influence on country music over four decades.

What makes this awards show different from the flashy ceremonies you might be used to is its focus on the songwriting itself. The Nashville Songwriter Awards celebrates the people who sit down with pen and paper and turn their heartaches, joys, and observations into songs that move millions. This year, Blake Pendergrass is being honored as songwriter of the year while Riley Green takes songwriter-artist of the year. These awards matter because they shine a light on the craft that makes country music so powerful and enduring.

If you’re someone who’s ever wondered who writes the songs you love or you simply appreciate great music and the people who create it, mark September 22 on your calendar. Tickets go on sale July 17 at 10 a.m. Central Time through ryman.com. Which of these performers are you most excited to see at the Ryman?