Riley Green continues to stress the fact that, regardless of worldwide acclaim, his origins from a town of little importance in Alabama remain the backbone of not only his identity but his very career. He credits his upbringing and the local bars where he first played music for keeping him authentic and grounded.
Again, not losing sight of the place that inspired him, Green made sure all of Nashville knew, “Every bit of success that I had came from that small town in Alabama. It came from me playin’ in bars down there, writin’ songs, and playin’ ‘em for people down there.” Aside from his career, the country star also pointed to his mental health. Being able to return home when he had the time brought him both peace and clarity.
“From a music business standpoint, it’s hard to have blinders in this town. When you’re so wrapped up in charts and awards and those types of things, it’s so easy to start looking at what somebody else is doing that’s having success.”
Green’s connection to home remains his anchor as his career expands. His 2024 album, Don’t Mind If I Do, marks a big breakout moment followed by a well-known duet with Ella Langley, which took him to another level of stardom and acclaim. He has garnered numerous CMA nominations and has asserted himself as a premier voice in modern country music.
He often reflects on sensory memories of his grandmother’s house — the smell and feel of it — using those recollections as creative fuel while on tour. When away from Alabama for long stretches, he admits feeling nostalgic for the simple life and the grounding familiarity that continues to shape his songwriting.
After wrapping his current tour in December, Green plans to spend time at home before heading to Mexico and then launching his 2026 Cowboy As It Gets Tour in April. Organized through Live Nation, the tour will include multiple big cities in the U.S. and various international cities. Artists scheduled to support are Justin Moore and Drake White, among several others. Green’s story continues to be an example of maintaining roots while making music in today’s ever-changing country music environment.
