Riley Green and Blake Pendergrass are early winners ahead of the ninth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards, slated for Sept. 22 at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. The annual awards are hosted by the Nashville Songwriters Association International, alongside presenting partner City National Bank.
Pendergrass has been named 2026’s songwriter of the year, an accolade given to the Nashville-associated songwriter who achieved the most charting success on Billboard‘s airplay charts in the Christian, country, mainstream top 40 and/or rock genres during the eligibility period of May 1, 2025-April 30, 2026. Pendergrass’ hit songs include the Morgan Wallen-recorded “Just In Case” and “I Got Better,” as well as the Jelly Roll-recorded “Heart of Stone.” Pendergrass earned his first CMA Triple Play award in April 2026.
Green has been named NSAI’s 2026 songwriter-artist of the year, which is given to an artist who has earned the most charting success within the same eligibility period with songs they not only recorded, but wrote. Green is known for writing many of his hits, including “Worst Way,” “Don’t Mind If I Do” and “You Look Like You Love Me.”
The evening will also honor Vince Gill with the Kris Kristofferson lifetime achievement award, and Paul Williams with NSAI’s keystone award. Additional honorees will include those in the song of the year category, the 2026 legendary song award, as well as the songwriters for each of the “10 Songs I Wish I’d Written” awards.
The first round of performers for the event will be revealed on July 15. Tickets go on sale July 17 at 10 a.m. CT at the Ryman’s website.
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