Texas Heritage Songwriters Association Inducts Four Legends into Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame

On Saturday evening, the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association proudly inducted four legendary songwriters into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame during a star-studded celebration at ACL Live in Austin, TX. Emceed by Texan and legendary singer-songwriter Ronnie Dunn, the unforgettable evening honoured Don Cook, Keith Gattis, Miranda Lambert, and George Strait for their extraordinary contributions and lasting influence on the musical landscape of Texas and beyond. The ceremony featured electrifying performances by Brooks & Dunn, Jamey Johnson, Parker McCollum, Randy Houser, Natalie Hemby, Ashley Monroe, Dean Dillon, Waylon Payne, Bubba Strait, and more, along with special appearances by inductees Miranda Lambert and George Strait themselves. Together, this class of inductees embodies the heart, grit, and poetry of Texas music, celebrating a rich songwriting legacy that continues to resonate far beyond the Lone Star State.

The evening also honoured Lisa and Freddy Fletcher with the “Darrell K Royal Texas Music Legend Award,” recognizing their remarkable dedication to supporting songwriters and strengthening the music community. As owners and founders of the legendary Arlyn Studios, a historic and influential recording facility that has served generations of artists and helped preserve Austin’s vibrant musical culture, the Fletchers have championed the art of songwriting and provided vital support to creators across genres.

Don Cook, whose name is impossible to separate from the sound of ’90s country, was honoured with a three-song performance from Brooks & Dunn, who delivered heartfelt renditions of “Brand New Man,” “You’re Gonna Miss Me,” and “That Ain’t No Way to Go.” Cook’s legacy includes co-writing 20 No. 1 hits and producing chart-topping tracks with artists like Brooks & Dunn, Alabama, and George Strait.

Keith Gattis, whose songs resonate with authenticity and emotional depth, was celebrated by Randy Houser, who performed “Reconsider,” and by Waylon Payne, accompanied by Melonie Cannon and Ashley Monroe, who performed an unflinchingly honest and heart-rending version of “El Cerrito Place.” The tribute concluded with a surprise appearance from George Strait, who performed his hit “I Got A Car,” also written by Gattis. Gattis’s award was accepted by his wife, Penny Gattis, and their children, McKenzie and DeLaney.

From small-town stages to international acclaim, Miranda Lambert has become the Academy of Country Music’s most-awarded artist of all time, a producer, label co-founder, and entrepreneur, whose decorated career includes 10 No. 1 singles, seven No. 1 albums, and three GRAMMYs. During the ceremony, her songwriting was celebrated with electrifying performances: Parker McCollum singing “Famous in a Small Town,” and Natalie Hemby and Ashley Monroe delivering an acoustic medley of “Bluebird” and “Heart Like Mine.” Lambert capped off an incredible tribute by joining long-time friends and fellow hall of famers Jack Ingram and Jon Randall for a soulful “Tin Man,” proving her indelible mark on songwriting and country music overall.

With over 100 million RIAA certifications, more than 60 major entertainment industry awards — including being celebrated at the “47th Annual Kennedy Center Honors” in December — and the only act in history to have a Top 10 hit every year for over three decades, icon and “King of Country Music,” George Strait, was honoured in a night befitting his unparalleled legacy. Jamey Johnson opened with a heartfelt rendition of “Kicked Out of Country,” followed by Dean Dillon delivering a stirring “Drinkin’ Man.” The celebration culminated with a special performance of “Here for a Good Time,” featuring Strait alongside his son Bubba, a moving reminder of his enduring influence and timeless impact on country music.

The 2026 Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame celebrated the legends who define Texas music, honouring Don Cook, Keith Gattis, Miranda Lambert, and George Strait. The night was a powerful reminder that Texas songwriting continues to inspire, influence, and resonate far beyond the Lone Star State.