This week, Ben leads a tribute to one of Nashville’s most revered storytellers, Don Schlitz, following his sudden passing at the age of 73. As the only non-performing songwriter ever inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, Schlitz’s pen shaped the very DNA of the genre. We revisit the magic behind his most iconic hits, from Kenny Rogers’ "The Gambler" to Randy Travis’ "Forever and Ever, Amen," and hear an exclusive interview excerpt with Caitlin Smith on the craft of co-writing the poignant Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers duet, "You Can’t Make Old Friends" with Don. Plus, we look at the rising "throwback" movement, defining the sound of 2026. From Riley Green’s latest single and his upcoming acting debut in the Yellowstone spin-off, Marshalls, to a first listen of Kacey Musgraves’ highly anticipated return to her traditional roots in her new project, Middle of Nowhere.