George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Don Cook & Keith Gattis Named 2026 Inductees Into Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame

George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Don Cook & Keith Gattis Named 2026 Inductees Into Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame

Two of Texas’ most iconic country stars, George Strait and Miranda Lambert, will soon stand side by side in the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame.

The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association has officially announced its 2026 class of inductees: Strait, Lambert, Don Cook, and the late Keith Gattis. The Hall of Fame exists to “honor and celebrate Texas songwriters who have played an important role in defining and interpreting Texas’ distinctive culture”—and this year’s honorees embody that mission.

 

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The Inductees

Miranda Lambert
Born in Lindale, Texas, Lambert burst onto the national stage in 2003 after finishing third on Nashville Star. Since then, she has become one of the most respected songwriters in modern country music. Among her many self-penned hits are “Over You,” “Tin Man,” “Bluebird,” “White Liar,” and “Heart Like Mine.”

George Strait
Raised in Pearsall, Texas, the “King of Country” holds the record for the most No. 1 hits in country music history. While many of his chart-toppers came from outside writers, Strait has contributed deeply personal songs of his own, including “I Believe,” “The Weight of the Badge,” “The Little Things,” and “The Book.”

Don Cook
Hailing from Carrizo Springs, Texas, Cook’s songwriting has left an indelible mark on country music. His songs have been recorded by legends such as Barbara Mandrell, George Jones, Blake Shelton, Clay Walker, and Kelly Clarkson. He also became a key collaborator with Brooks & Dunn, writing fan-favorites like “Brand New Man,” “Lost and Found,” and “Only in America.”

Keith Gattis (1970–2023)
The late Georgetown, Texas native was not only a songwriter but also a gifted producer and guitarist. Gattis’ work reached artists including Kenny Chesney (“El Cerrito Place”), George Jones (“Real Deal”), and fellow inductees Strait (“I Got a Car”) and Lambert (“I Just Really Miss You”).

All four inductees will officially join the Hall of Fame during a special ceremony on February 21, 2026, at ACL Live in Austin.

Giving Back: Strait & Lambert Support Texas Flood Relief

Beyond their upcoming induction, both Strait and Lambert have recently stepped up in a major way to help their home state after devastating floods swept through the Texas Hill Country in early July, claiming at least 135 lives.

• On July 27, George Strait hosted a benefit concert in Boerne, Texas, raising an incredible $6.25 million for relief efforts.
• On August 17, Miranda Lambert joined forces with fellow Texan Parker McCollum for the Band Together Texas benefit at Austin’s Moody Center. With a star-studded lineup that included Cody Johnson, Ronnie Dunn, Lukas Nelson, and even a surprise performance by Jason Aldean, the event raised $8.5 million.

Both concerts were livestreamed, allowing fans worldwide to join in supporting Texans in need.

A Legacy of Song & Service

This year’s Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees represent not only the heart of Texas music but also its enduring spirit of resilience and generosity. From the timeless voice of George Strait to the fearless pen of Miranda Lambert, the storytelling of Don Cook, and the lasting artistry of Keith Gattis, these honorees embody the soul of Texas songwriting.

And with their recent efforts to support flood relief, Strait and Lambert have proven once again that their commitment to their home state extends far beyond the stage.

Hats off to George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Don Cook, and Keith Gattis—true Texans whose songs and legacies will live on for generations.