Introduction
Country music sensation Riley Green, once a contestant on a reality TV show, has transformed into one of the genre’s most compelling new artists. His journey from local clubs to performing on The Voice finale is a testament to his authentic sound and relatable songwriting.
A decade ago, Green was a participant on CMT’s “Redneck Island,” a survival-style competition. While the $100,000 prize was tempting, Green saw the show as a platform to launch his burgeoning music career. Fast forward to December 2024, and Green returned to reality television, not as a competitor, but as a celebrated musical guest on the two-night Live Finale of The Voice Season 26. He shared the stage with an impressive lineup including Sting, Snoop Dogg, Kelly Clarkson, Dan + Shay, Myles Smith, and Tears for Fears. Green notably performed his hit duet “Don’t Mind if I Do” with Ella Langley on the second night.
Beyond his musical pursuits and reality TV stints, the multi-talented Green was a college quarterback at Jacksonville State University and owns a Nashville bar called Riley Green Duck Blind.
Since his “Redneck Island” days, Green has built a robust discography. He signed with Big Machine Records and released his debut full-length album, Different ‘Round Here, in 2019, which featured the hit “There Was This Girl.” This was followed by Ain’t My Last Rodeo in October 2023 and Don’t Mind If I Do in 2024. His talent has not gone unnoticed, earning him the 2020 New Male Artist of the Year award from the Academy of Country Music, among other accolades.
The Man Behind the Music: Early Life and Influences
Born on October 18, 1988, in Jacksonville, Alabama, Green’s upbringing deeply influenced his music. Surrounded by the sounds of traditional country, Southern rock, and blues, his songs reflect his connection to Southern culture. His grandfather, a talented musician, played a pivotal role in nurturing Green’s love for country music, teaching him various instruments like the guitar, banjo, and mandolin from a young age. Influences like Hank Williams, Merle Haggard, and Alan Jackson laid the groundwork for his traditional country sound, while exposure to southern rock and gospel added subtle contemporary elements.
By his teenage years, Green was already performing in local bars and festivals, honing his craft and developing his unique style. His natural talent and raw authenticity quickly garnered attention in the Southern music scene.
A Breakthrough and Distinctive Sound
Green’s significant breakthrough came in 2017 when he signed with Big Machine Records. His debut album, Different ‘Round Here, released in 2018, skillfully blended traditional country with a modern twist. The album’s lead single, “There Was This Girl,” became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Country AirPlay chart, establishing him as a rising star. Subsequent singles like “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” and “Memory of You” further solidified his reputation for relatable themes of family, small-town life, and heartbreak.
What truly distinguishes Riley Green’s music is his seamless fusion of traditional and modern country. While rooted in the storytelling tradition of classic artists, he fearlessly incorporates elements of rock, pop, and blues, giving his sound a fresh, contemporary edge. His smooth vocals, melodic guitar riffs, and strong rhythm section create a sound that is both timeless and current, appealing to a broad audience. Green’s songwriting, often deeply personal and grounded in his Alabama upbringing, resonates with listeners through its authenticity and occasional humor, showcasing his “down-to-earth” personality.
Green’s appearance on The Voice Season 26 finale served as a major platform, introducing his captivating talent to millions of new fans and further solidifying his position as a compelling and exciting artist in modern country music. His extensive North American tour schedule through September 2025 offers ample opportunities for fans to experience his magnetic live performances. Riley Green continues to be a rising star whose blend of tradition, modern sensibilities, and Southern charm makes him a favorite among fans and a leader in the next generation of country music artists.