The Unexpected Age Of Riley Green: 5 Facts About The Country Star's Journey From Quarterback To ACM Winner

The curiosity surrounding country music star Riley Green's age is a common search query, often driven by his traditional, old-school sound that contrasts with his youthful, rugged image. As of today, December 12, 2025, the multi-platinum singer-songwriter is 37 years old, having recently celebrated his birthday in October. This detailed article will not only confirm his current age but will also dive deep into his fascinating biography, his unexpected sports career, and his most recent, chart-topping musical achievements that have cemented his place as a powerhouse in the modern country landscape.

Born in the late 1980s, Riley Green has successfully blended a classic country style with contemporary appeal, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. His journey from a college athlete in Alabama to an ACM Award-winning artist is a compelling story that provides crucial context to his age and the maturity of his songwriting, which is often rooted in nostalgia, small-town life, and the values of the American South.

Johnathan Riley Green: A Complete Biography and Profile

The man known simply as Riley Green has a background as authentic as the lyrics he writes. Here is a complete profile of the country music sensation:

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• Full Name: Johnathan Riley Green
• Date of Birth: October 18, 1988
• Current Age (Dec 2025): 37 years old
• Hometown: Jacksonville, Alabama
• Education: Attended Jacksonville State University (JSU)
• Pre-Music Career: College Football Quarterback for the JSU Gamecocks (2007–2009); Appeared on the CMT reality show Redneck Island
• Record Label: Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment (under exclusive license to Big Machine Label Group)
• Signature Style: Traditional Country, with themes of Southern life, hunting, fishing, and small-town romance.
• Key Awards: ACM New Male Artist of the Year (2020), Multiple ACM and CMA Awards for "you look like you love me" (with Ella Langley).

Green’s deep roots in Jacksonville, Alabama, are a constant source of inspiration, with his music often paying homage to his grandfather and the traditional values he was raised with. This authenticity is a major factor in his widespread appeal.

From Jacksonville State Quarterback to Nashville Harbor Artist

Long before he was selling out arenas and winning major awards, Riley Green’s primary focus was on the gridiron. His athletic career is a surprising, yet crucial, chapter of his life that informs his work ethic and stage presence today.

The College Football Years

Between 2007 and 2009, Johnathan Riley Green was the quarterback for the Jacksonville State University Gamecocks. Playing in the NCAA FCS Division 1, Green was a dedicated athlete, a role that required the kind of discipline and competitive drive that he later channeled into his music career. While his aspirations for professional sports eventually shifted, the lessons learned on the field—teamwork, resilience, and performing under pressure—undoubtedly prepared him for the demanding world of country music.

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The Shift to Songwriting and Early Success

Green’s transition to music was gradual, initially playing local bars and college venues. His breakthrough came with the release of independent EPs before signing with Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment. His debut major-label album, Different 'Round Here (2019), showcased his talent for relatable storytelling and established his "traditional country sound." The lead single, "There Was This Girl," became his first major hit, setting the stage for his subsequent successes.

Riley Green’s Latest Music, Awards, and Tour Updates for 2025

The year 2025 has been another milestone period for Riley Green, marked by a major deluxe album release, high-profile collaborations, and significant award recognition, proving his career is in a continuous upward trajectory.

The Don't Mind If I Do (Deluxe) Album

Following the success of his 2024 album, Don't Mind If I Do, Green released the highly anticipated deluxe edition on August 29, 2025. This extended version includes fresh tracks and further explores the themes of rural life and personal reflection that define his discography. The album follows his previous acclaimed releases, including Ain't My Last Rodeo (2023), and continues to solidify his reputation as a prolific songwriter.

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The album features several key collaborations that have garnered attention, including the track "I Just Need You" featuring Hannah McFarland. Green has also had notable collaborations with other major artists, such as the chart-topping "Half of Me" with Thomas Rhett and the re-recorded title track "Different 'Round Here" featuring Luke Combs, which introduced his music to an even wider audience.

Major Award Wins and Recognition

Riley Green is not just a commercial success; he is also an industry favorite, as evidenced by his recent awards. His collaboration with rising star Ella Langley on the song "you look like you love me" was a major talking point in the 2025 awards season.

This powerful single earned Green and Langley multiple accolades, including:

• ACM Single of the Year
• ACM Music Video of the Year
• CMA Single of the Year
• CMA Song of the Year

These recent wins build upon his earlier success as the 2020 ACM New Male Artist of the Year, showcasing his sustained relevance and growth in the genre.

2025–2026 Tour Schedule

For fans eager to see the 37-year-old country star live, Green continues to maintain an active touring schedule. His official website lists dates extending into late 2025 and early 2026. Notable upcoming performances include appearances in major venues, demonstrating the high demand for his powerful live shows that blend his traditional sound with rock energy.

Topical Authority: Riley Green’s Enduring Appeal

Riley Green's enduring appeal in a rapidly evolving genre lies in his commitment to the "traditional country sound." He has masterfully utilized LSI keywords and themes like "Copenhagen," "small-town life," and "outdoorsman" to connect with a core audience that values authenticity. His ability to write songs that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable—such as his early hit "There Was This Girl"—has allowed him to bridge the gap between classic country fans and the younger generation.

The narrative of an athlete trading his cleats for a guitar, coupled with his appearance on the reality show Redneck Island, has provided a unique, grounded persona that resonates strongly with his fanbase. At 37, Riley Green is in his prime, blending the wisdom of his experiences with the energy of a star on the rise, ensuring his music and career will continue to influence country music for years to come.