Riley Green’s self-penned song “Worst Way” tops Billboard Country Airplay Chart
Riley Green has achieved a significant milestone in his music career by landing his first solo No. 1 single on the Country Airplay chart with his latest track, “Worst Way.” This accomplishment adds to Green’s list of achievements, which includes three total No. 1 singles, with this being his first as the lead artist. Prior to this, he had reached the top spot as a featured artist on “You Look Like You Love Me” by Ella Langley in December 2024 and as a contributor on Thomas Rhett’s song “Half of Me,” which hit No. 1 in November 2022.
“Worst Way,” produced by Dann Huff, holds a special place in country radio history by being one of the few songs since the launch of the Country Airplay chart in January 1990 to be written solely by the performer. Green’s achievement follows in the footsteps of Chayce Beckham, who topped the chart with “23” in April 2024. The last artist to accomplish this feat before Green was Taylor Swift with “Ours” in March 2012.
Green shared his inspiration behind “Worst Way,” stating that he penned the song while on tour, aiming to capture the essence of songs like John Mayer’s “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” and Eric Church’s “Like a Wrecking Ball.” With Dann Huff’s production, Green successfully encapsulates the emotional depth he sought to convey in the track.
Featured on Green’s album “Don’t Mind If I Do,” which debuted at No. 8 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart in November 2024, “Worst Way” seamlessly blends introspective storytelling with authentic country sounds. Drawing from his own experiences and diverse musical influences, Green, at 36, showcases his songwriting prowess and musical artistry.
Stats reveal that “Worst Way” garnered 28.4 million audience impressions during the June 6–12 tracking week, marking a 13% increase from the previous week. The track’s ascent to the top of the Country Airplay chart on June 21 highlights its growing popularity and radio support, following the success of Green’s earlier 2025 single “Damn Good Day To Leave,” which peaked at No. 10 in February.
With “Worst Way,” Green not only secures a significant milestone in his career but also contributes to the tradition of artist-penned No. 1 hits in country music. As his star continues to rise, Green’s authentic storytelling and musical prowess solidify his position as a rising star in the country music scene.