George Strait and Miranda Lambert to Join Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2026
Country music royalty George Strait and Miranda Lambert will officially take their place among Texas legends as they are inducted into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2026. The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association made the announcement, naming four honorees: Strait, Lambert, Don Cook, and the late Keith Gattis.
The organization’s mission has always been to honor and celebrate Texas songwriters who helped define the state’s unique culture, and this year’s inductees embody that tradition.
Miranda Lambert: A True Texas Storyteller
Born and raised in Lindale, Texas, Miranda Lambert rose to stardom after finishing third on Nashville Star in 2003. Since then, she has become one of country music’s most acclaimed artists, writing heartfelt hits such as “Over You,” “Tin Man,” “Bluebird,” “White Liar,” and “Heart Like Mine.”
When reacting to the news, Lambert shared a heartfelt post on social media:
“It is a huge honor to learn that I will be inducted into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame next year. Especially alongside my hero George Strait, and legends Don Cook and Keith Gattis.”
She also reflected on her early days, posting a touching photo with her father, who was her first co-writer and guitar teacher.
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George Strait: The King of Country
George Strait, famously known as the “King of Country,” grew up in Pearsall, Texas, and holds the record for the most No. 1 songs in country music history. While many of his chart-toppers were written by others, Strait has penned some deeply personal tracks including “I Believe,” “The Weight of the Badge,” “The Little Things,” and “The Book.”
Don Cook & Keith Gattis: Legends Behind the Hits
Don Cook, born in Carrizo Springs, Texas, has written timeless songs recorded by icons like Barbara Mandrell, Blake Shelton, George Jones, and Brooks & Dunn, including “Brand New Man” and “Only in America.”
Keith Gattis, from Georgetown, Texas, left a lasting legacy before his passing. He collaborated with stars such as Kenny Chesney (“El Cerrito Place”), George Jones (“Real Deal”), and even contributed to songs for both Strait and Lambert.
Giving Back to Texas Through Music
Beyond their Hall of Fame honor, both Strait and Lambert have recently shown their commitment to Texas in times of crisis. Following the devastating floods in July that claimed at least 135 lives, the two country stars organized benefit concerts to support relief efforts.
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George Strait’s benefit concert in Boerne, Texas, raised an incredible $6.25 million.
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Miranda Lambert joined Parker McCollum for the Band Together Texas benefit at Austin’s Moody Center, raising an impressive $8.5 million with performances from Cody Johnson, Ronnie Dunn, Lukas Nelson, and a surprise appearance from Jason Aldean.
Both events highlighted not just their musical influence, but their deep-rooted dedication to helping their home state.
A Historic Night Ahead
The official induction ceremony will take place on February 21, 2026, at ACL Live in Austin, Texas, where George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Don Cook, and Keith Gattis will be honored for their contributions to Texas music and culture.
