Texas Country Stars Inducted Into Songwriters Hall of Fame

George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Don Cook, and Keith Gattis honored at 20th anniversary ceremony in Austin

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Country music superstars George Strait and Miranda Lambert were inducted into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame over the weekend, alongside veteran hitmakers Don Cook and the late Keith Gattis. The ceremony marked the 20th anniversary of the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association awards show, which celebrates the writers behind some of country music's biggest hits.

Why it matters

The induction of Strait and Lambert recognizes their contributions as not just acclaimed performers, but also skilled songwriters who have helped shape the sound of modern country music. The inclusion of Cook and Gattis also highlights the important role that behind-the-scenes songwriters play in the industry.

The details

Strait, known for his smooth baritone vocals, has writing credits on tracks like "Here for a Good Time" and "Every Little Honky Tonk Bar." Lambert, who hails from Lindale, Texas, is acclaimed for her sharp storytelling and has writing credits on songs from her albums like "The Weight of These Wings." Cook is responsible for 20 chart-topping singles, including Brooks & Dunn hits, while Gattis, who passed away in 2023, penned songs for Kenny Chesney and Strait.

  • The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association awards show celebrated its 20th anniversary this weekend.
  • George Strait and Miranda Lambert were inducted into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame on February 21, 2026.

The players

George Strait

A country music superstar known for his smooth baritone vocals and extensive chart success, with several key songwriting credits to his name.

Miranda Lambert

A country performer from Lindale, Texas, who is acclaimed for her sharp storytelling and has writing credits on some of her biggest singles.

Don Cook

A veteran hitmaker responsible for 20 chart-topping singles, including Brooks & Dunn staples like "Brand New Man" and "You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone."

Keith Gattis

A Georgetown, Texas native who passed away in 2023 at the age of 52, and was honored posthumously for penning songs for Kenny Chesney and George Strait, as well as collaborating with Willie Nelson and Randy Houser.

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The takeaway

The induction of Strait, Lambert, Cook, and Gattis into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame highlights the vital role that songwriters play in the country music industry, often working behind the scenes to craft the hits that become the soundtrack of the genre. This ceremony serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Texas-born talent and the state's continued influence on the sound of modern country music.