Riley Green

Biography

Riley Green, born on October 18, 1988, in Jacksonville, Alabama, is an American country music singer and songwriter. Growing up, he was heavily influenced by his grandfather, Bufford, who exposed him to traditional country music. Before pursuing music full-time, Green was a Division I FCS quarterback at Jacksonville State University and a contestant on the CMT reality show Redneck Island.

Music Career

Green began his career by releasing a self-titled EP in 2013, followed by several other EPs in the subsequent years. In 2018, he signed with Big Machine Label Group. His debut single, "There Was This Girl," became a No. 1 hit on country radio. This was followed by the popular song "I Wish Grandpas Never Died." His debut album, "Different 'Round Here," was released in 2019.

He has since released more studio albums, including "Ain't My Last Rodeo" (2023) and "Don't Mind If I Do" (2024). Green is known for his collaborations with other country artists, including Thomas Rhett on "Half of Me" and a re-recorded version of "Different 'Round Here" with Luke Combs. He has toured with major acts like Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Morgan Wallen.

Musical Style

Green's music is characterized by its traditional country sound blended with Southern rock influences. His songwriting often reflects his personal experiences and Southern roots, with themes of love, loss, and small-town life. He credits artists like Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Alan Jackson as major influences.

Awards and Recognition

In 2020, Riley Green was named the Academy of Country Music's New Male Artist of the Year. He has also received nominations from the Country Music Association Awards. In 2025, he won the ACM Award for Visual Media of the Year for "You Look Like You Love Me" with Ella Langley.