Alumnus Ashley Gorley Inducted Into Songwriters Hall of Fame

Chart-topping songwriter joins music's most prestigious songwriting institution

Belmont alumnus Ashley Gorley (music business ’99) has received one of the music industry’s most prestigious recognitions: induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. The 2025 Induction & Awards Gala was held Thursday, June 12, at the Marriott Marquis in New York.

Gorley was among seven distinguished inductees, joining music legends George Clinton; Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald and Patrick Simmons of the Doobie Brothers; producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins; Beach Boys’ Mike Love; and Tony Macaulay in this year’s class. The ceremony also honored Stephen Schwartz with the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award and rising star Gracie Abrams with the Hal David Starlight Award.

From Belmont to the Hall of Fame

During his induction speech, Gorley reflected on the surreal nature of the moment: “When I got the call about tonight, it didn’t seem real. It didn’t seem like my name belonged on this list. I’ve spent the last few weeks stressing, trying to internalize, ‘Is this a real thing?’ Asking if I belong on this list and in this room with you guys.”

The Kentucky native, who has become one of Nashville’s most prolific songwriters, continued: “And as much as part of me is still in shock, I look around this room and I know that I do belong. I belong because it’s a room full of people who love music. I love the honesty in storytelling in country music. Tonight is a story I could never make up and only God could write.”

Record-Breaking Run

Gorley’s induction caps off an extraordinary career that has pushed boundaries in country songwriting. With more than 80 No. 1 radio singles and more than 400 songs recorded by artists across multiple genres, he holds the record for the most No. 1 country hits by a songwriter. His recent Grammy-nominated hit “Last Night,” performed by Morgan Wallen, dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-setting 16 weeks in 2023.

The songwriter’s accolades include being named the Nashville Songwriters Association International’s Songwriter of the Decade for 2010–19, earning 24 CMA Triple Play Awards, and receiving both ACM Songwriter of the Year and Variety’s Songwriter of the Year (all-genre) honors in 2023. 

Championing the Next Generation

Beyond his individual achievements, Gorley has fostered new talent through his publishing and artist development company — Tape Room Music — which has produced more than 45 No. 1 songs since its founding in 2011. He has also been a vocal advocate for songwriters’ rights, promoting legislation such as the Music Modernization Act.

At Belmont, Gorley continues to invest in the next generation of music industry professionals, regularly returning to campus to mentor students and lead seminars. His recent three-part master class series emphasized the importance of preparation, diverse influences and fearless collaboration in modern songwriting.

Honored Among Icons

The Songwriters Hall of Fame, established in 1969, celebrates and honors the contributions of songwriters across all genres. Its mission is to preserve, honor and celebrate the legacy of great songwriters while developing new writing talent through professional education, master sessions, workshops and scholarships.

Gorley joins an impressive roster of approximately 460 inductees, including legends like Bob Dylan, Carole King, Paul Simon, Elton John and Bernie Taupin, Dolly Parton and many others who have shaped the sound of generations through their songwriting.

“To Ms. Linda Moran and everybody else on the team who’s rooted for me and treated me like their own,” Gorley concluded in his remarks. “I’m blessed, grateful and hyped to be a part of this family now that they call the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Love y’all and appreciate you.”

The induction marks a milestone in Gorley’s prolific career. He continues to innovate in songwriting while maintaining his commitment to developing the next generation of music industry talent.