Nashville, TN – Country music artist Riley Green has achieved a significant milestone, reaching the top position on the highly competitive Billboard Country Airplay chart with his single \”Worst Way.\” The achievement marks Green’s first solo single to reach No. 1, solidifying his position as a prominent voice in contemporary country music. The track’s ascent to the summit on the chart dated June 21 underscores a career trajectory marked by growing success.
Chart Performance and Milestones
\”Worst Way\” climbed from No. 3 to claim the coveted No. 1 spot, demonstrating strong momentum on country radio nationwide. During the tracking week spanning June 6 through June 12, the single garnered an impressive 28.4 million audience impressions, according to Billboard’s data. This figure represents a robust 13% increase compared to the previous week, highlighting the growing popularity and radio play the song received across the United States.
While this is Green’s inaugural No. 1 as a sole lead artist, it is his third overall chart-topper. He previously reached the peak position as a featured artist on Ella Langley’s single \”You Look Like You Love Me,\” which topped the chart in December 2024, and on Thomas Rhett’s hit \”Half of Me,\” which reached No. 1 in November 2022. The success of \”Worst Way\” builds upon this foundation of collaborative achievements, showcasing his ability to drive a hit single independently.
The Significance of a Self-Written Hit
A particularly notable aspect of \”Worst Way’s\” success is that it was solely written by Riley Green himself. In the history of the Billboard Country Airplay chart, which commenced in January 1990, \”Worst Way\” is only the 39th song to reach the No. 1 position while being exclusively penned by the performing artist. This places Green in an esteemed group of singer-songwriters who have achieved this rare feat.
The last artist to accomplish this milestone was Chayce Beckham, whose self-written track \”23\” topped the chart in April 2024. Green’s accomplishment underscores the enduring power and appeal of an artist’s personal connection to their material, resonating with both radio programmers and listeners.
Album Context and Creative Inspiration
\”Worst Way\” is featured on Riley Green’s album, Don’t Mind If I Do. The album made its debut on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, entering at No. 8 upon its release in November 2024. The single’s success on the airwaves is expected to further boost interest in the full-length project.
Green revealed that he penned \”Worst Way\” while on tour, often finding moments for creative expression amidst his demanding schedule. He cited specific inspirations for the song’s sound and feel, aiming to capture the atmospheric intensity reminiscent of John Mayer’s critically acclaimed track \”Slow Dancing in a Burning Room\” or the raw emotional power found in Eric Church’s hit \”Like a Wrecking Ball.\” This blend of influences appears to have struck a chord with the country audience.
Production and Future Outlook
The production of \”Worst Way\” was helmed by Dann Huff, a highly respected and prolific producer in the country music industry known for his work with numerous chart-topping artists. Huff’s expertise is evident in the single’s polished yet heartfelt sound, providing the ideal backdrop for Green’s distinctive vocals and songwriting.
Reaching No. 1 with a self-written solo single represents a pivotal moment in Riley Green’s career. It not only signifies commercial success but also validates his artistry as a songwriter and performer. As \”Worst Way\” continues its run on country radio, the achievement is expected to further elevate Green’s profile and anticipation for his future musical endeavors.
