Texas Heritage Songwriters Association Reveals 2026 Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductees

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The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association have revealed this year’s inductees for the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame. This year’s honorees are Don Cook, Keith Gattis, Miranda Lambert and George Strait. Each of the inductees are recognized for their heart, grit, and poetry that defines Texas music and have influenced music beyond the borders of the Lone Star State. They will be inducted during the 20th annual Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards Show on Feb. 21, 2026, at ACL Live in Austin.

Cook was born in Carrizo Springs and was influential in the songwriting of 90s country. He has written 20 No. 1 hits, including 13 with Brooks & Dunn. He also has collaborated with Alabama, George Strait and Kenny Rogers, alongside his production work with many of country music’s biggest names. Cook served as Chief Creative Officer and Senior Vice President of Sony/ATV Music Publishing from 1994-2004.

The late Gattis grew up in Georgetown and brought his signature aching voice, masterful guitar work and fearless creativity to Music City. He has had cuts by George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Willie Nelson, Randy Houser, George Jones and many others. His own recorded “El Cerrito Place” was on his acclaimed Big City Blues album and went on to cement itself a hit. Gattis also spent time touring alongside Johnny Paycheck and Dwight Yoakam, produced acclaimed albums, and mentored countless artists before his passing in 2023.

Lambert has made herself an icon in the country music world after growing up in Lindale. She is the most-awarded artist in ACM history, and has collected 10 No. 1 singles, seven No. 1 albums, and three Grammy Awards. Some of her biggest hits were co-penned by her, including “Bluebird,” “Tin Man” and “Automatic.” She has also spent time creating hits for other artists, such as Morgan Wallen’s “Thought You Should Know” and Chris Stapleton’s “What Am I Gonna Do.” Lambert is also an entrepreneur, businesswoman, author and passionate animal advocate, having raised over $11 million through her MuttNation Foundation since its inception.

Country Music Hall of Fam member Strait, better known as the “King of Country Music,” has received over 110 million RIAA certifications throughout his career. His penned tracks have showcased capture timeless imagery, love stories, and the cowboy ethos, mixing classic honky-tonk with contemporary country that makeup the Texas tradition. Strait has also showcased his philanthropy throughout his career, raising millions for military families and other causes.

Madison Hahnen
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