Before They Were Stars, They’re Here: Key West Songwriters Festival Turns 30

KEY WEST, Fla. (April 24, 2026) — For five days this spring, Key West won’t just be a destination, it’ll be a soundtrack. 

Part concert series, part ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at the stories behind the hits, the festival has built a reputation for spotlighting artists on the brink of stardom. In fact, before they were household names, Chris Stapleton, Kacey Musgraves, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Kane Brown, Thomas Rhett, and Walker Hayes all took the stage here. More recently, rising stars like Carter Faith, Riley Green, and Ella Langley have followed that same path. 

The Key West Songwriters Festival, presented by BMI, returns April 29 through May 3, 2026, marking its 30th anniversary with the kind of lineup and atmosphere that has made it one of the most beloved music events in the country. Hosted by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Rams Head Presents, the festival brings more than 200 BMI songwriters to stages across the island, transforming bars, beaches, and historic venues into intimate listening rooms and unforgettable experiences. 

This year’s lineup continues that tradition, featuring Ashley Cooke, HARDY, Jack Ingram, Robert Earl Keen, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose, Brian Kelley, Chuck Mead, Rissi Palmer, Bruce Robison, Robert Randolph, and many more. In total, more than 200 songwriters will perform throughout the festival.  

The celebration kicks off Wednesday, April 29, with the Sunset Pier Kick Off Party at Ocean Key Resort & Spa, where Jeffrey Steele and The Brummies set the tone as the sun dips below the Gulf. On Saturday, May 2, ERNEST headlines the festival’s signature free Duval Street block party, turning the heart of Key West into a high-energy, open-air concert. The weekend winds down Sunday, May 3, with Sunday Songs: Music & Mimosas at Williams Hall — a fan-favorite blend of laid-back vibes and world-class songwriting. 

Throughout the week, Rams Head Southernmost Bar & Restaurant serves as festival headquarters, anchoring the action and hosting performances that bring fans face-to-face with the writers behind the music. 

At its core, the festival’s legacy is built on the songwriters themselves; many of whom return year after year. Bob DiPiero first played in 1997. Jeffrey Steele joined in 1998. Chuck Cannon and Tia Sillers followed in 2000, and James Slater has performed every year since 2004…a testament to the community and creative spirit that keeps artists coming back. 

Since acquiring the festival in 2021, Rams Head Presents has continued to expand its reach while preserving the authenticity that makes it special. Sponsors for the 30th anniversary include Gallagher, HD Radio, Texas Roadhouse, Dulce Vida Tequila, Empress Gin, Ketel One, Captain Morgan, and Bud Light. 

Whether you’re discovering your next favorite artist or hearing the stories behind songs you already love, the Key West Songwriters Festival offers something you won’t find anywhere else. 

For tickets, the full lineup, and schedule details, visit keywestsongwritersfestival.com. 

High-resolution images, photo credits, and captions are available at this link.

###