Nashville, Tennessee – The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) celebrated the eighth annual Nashville Songwriter Awards this evening at the Ryman Auditorium. Presented by City National Bank, the event recognized top talent across various categories, including Song of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and Songwriter-Artist of the Year. Esteemed industry figures and music fans gathered to honor the significant contributions of songwriters to the music world.
The ceremony featured several powerful performances and highlighted the creative storytelling that defines country music and other genres. Key awards included the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award for Alabama and the NSAI President’s Keystone Award for Brenda Lee. Dolly Parton's iconic 'I Will Always Love You' received the Legendary Song award, recognizing its timeless impact.
Key Takeaways
- Josh Phillips won Song of the Year for 'Dirt Cheap.'
- Ashley Gorley was named Songwriter of the Year.
- Matthew West received Songwriter-Artist of the Year.
- Country legends Alabama earned the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award.
- Brenda Lee was honored with the NSAI President’s Keystone Award.
- Dolly Parton’s 'I Will Always Love You' won the Legendary Song award.
Celebrating Top Songwriting Talent in Nashville
The 2025 Nashville Songwriter Awards brought together the songwriting community to acknowledge outstanding achievements. The event, held at the historic Ryman Auditorium, is a significant moment for artists and writers. It underlines the importance of songwriting in the global music landscape. City National Bank has been a consistent partner for these awards.
“City National Bank is proud to celebrate the craft and impact of songwriters through our ongoing partnership with The Nashville Songwriter Awards,” shared Diane Pearson and Lori Badgett, Senior Vice Presidents, Entertainment & Sports Banking Nashville, City National Bank. “These awards recognize the artistry and creative storytelling that help bring music to life and inspire audiences around the world.”
The evening's top honors went to writers who have significantly impacted the charts and the hearts of listeners. These awards are decided through a rigorous process, often involving votes from professional songwriter members of NSAI. This peer recognition adds a special layer of prestige to each award.
Individual Category Winners
Josh Phillips secured the highly anticipated Song of the Year award for his composition, 'Dirt Cheap.' This track, recorded by Cody Johnson, was penned solely by Phillips. His win highlights the power of a single songwriter's vision. The song resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, making it a standout entry.
Ashley Gorley was recognized as Songwriter of the Year. Gorley is known for his consistent chart success and numerous hit songs across various genres. His extensive catalog and impactful writing have made him a dominant force in the industry for years. This award solidifies his position as one of Nashville's most prolific writers.
The Songwriter-Artist of the Year award went to Matthew West. This category honors artists who not only perform their own material but also excel in crafting the songs themselves. West's ability to combine his artistry with strong songwriting skills makes him a deserving recipient of this honor.
Award Fact
The NSAI Song of the Year is the highest vote-getter among the '10 Songs I Wish I’d Written' selections, chosen by professional songwriter members of NSAI.
Special Recognition and Lifetime Achievements
Beyond the competitive categories, the NSAI also presented several special awards recognizing enduring legacies and significant contributions. These honors celebrate individuals and groups who have shaped the music industry over decades. Their work continues to inspire new generations of artists and songwriters.
Country music icons Alabama received the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award. This award acknowledges a songwriter or group whose works have made a substantial contribution to the American songbook. It also recognizes those who have inspired the careers of countless others. Alabama's vast catalog of hits and their influence on country music make them a fitting choice for this prestigious honor.
Award Context
The Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award is given to a songwriter whose body of work has significantly enriched the American songbook and inspired other artists. Alabama's career spans over five decades, with numerous chart-topping singles and albums.
Music legend Brenda Lee was presented with the NSAI President’s Keystone Award. This award is chosen by the current NSAI President and recognizes significant contributions to the betterment of all songwriters. Lee’s long-standing career and advocacy for writers highlight her dedication to the craft and community. Her impact extends far beyond her hit records.
The Legendary Song award went to Dolly Parton for her timeless composition, 'I Will Always Love You.' This award honors a song that has achieved enduring status and continues to resonate with audiences across generations. Parton's song, famously covered by Whitney Houston, remains one of the most beloved and recognized songs globally. Its emotional depth and universal message have cemented its place in music history.
The Coveted '10 Songs I Wish I’d Written' Awards
A highlight of the evening is always the '10 Songs I Wish I’d Written' awards. These honors are particularly significant because they are voted on by professional songwriter members of NSAI. This peer-to-peer recognition celebrates the work that deeply impresses and inspires other writers in the industry. It reflects the respect and admiration within the songwriting community.
Songs eligible for this award must have at least one Nashville-based writer. They must also have charted in the Top 20 of a Billboard Airplay chart. This includes the Christian, Country, Mainstream Top 40, and/or Rock genres. The eligibility period for this year's awards ran from May 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025. The NSAI Song of the Year, 'Dirt Cheap,' was the highest vote-getter among these selections.
Full List of '10 Songs I Wish I’d Written' Winners:
- '4X4XU'
Written by: Jon Decious, Aaron Raitiere, Lainey Wilson (recorded by: Lainey Wilson) - 'Espresso'
Written by: Amy Allen, Julian Bunetta, Sabrina Carpenter, Steph Jones (recorded by: Sabrina Carpenter) - 'I Had Some Help'
Written by: Louis Bell, Ashley Gorley, Charlie Handsome, Jonathan Hoskins, Austin Post, Ernest Keith Smith, Morgan Wallen, Chandler Paul Walters (recorded by: Morgan Wallen feat. Post Malone) - 'I Never Lie'
Written by: Carson Chamberlain, Tim Nichols, Zach Top (recorded by: Zach Top) - 'I’m Gonna Love You'
Written by: Kelly Archer, Travis Denning, Chris Stevens (recorded by: Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood) - 'Lies Lies Lies'
Written by: Jessie Jo Dillon, Josh Miller, Daniel Ross, Chris Tompkins (recorded by: Morgan Wallen) - 'One Bad Habit'
Written by: Marc Beeson, Aaron Eshuis, Tony Lane (recorded by: Tim McGraw) - 'She’s Somebody’s Daughter (Reimagined)'
Written by: Drew Baldridge, Cameron Jaymes, Jimmy Yeary (recorded by: Drew Baldridge) - 'Texas'
Written by: Johnny Clawson, Josh Dorr, Lalo Guzman, Kyle Sturrock (recorded by: Blake Shelton) - 'You Look Like You Love Me'
Written by: Riley Green, Ella Langley, Aaron Raitiere (recorded by: Ella Langley feat. Riley Green)
These songs represent the pinnacle of contemporary songwriting, showcasing diverse lyrical themes and musical styles. They highlight the collaborative nature of the music industry. Many of these songs involve multiple writers, demonstrating the power of teamwork in crafting hits. The Nashville Songwriter Awards continue to be a vital platform for recognizing and celebrating these creative contributions.
The event concluded with attendees reflecting on the talent and dedication present in the songwriting community. The awards serve as a reminder of the foundational role songwriters play in creating the music that moves millions. The NSAI continues its mission to protect and advocate for songwriters everywhere, ensuring their craft is recognized and valued.