The International Western Music Association (IWMA) has named Lewis County-based singer-songwriter Chris Guenther the 2025 IWMA Songwriter of the Year, recognizing his contributions to contemporary Western music.
Known for his storytelling, musical craftsmanship and authentic portrayal of western life, Guenther has earned a reputation as one of the genre’s most compelling modern voices.
“Receiving this award from the IWMA is an honor,” Guenther said in a news release. “I look forward to keeping the spirit of western country music alive for many years to come.”
Guenther has been writing and recording country and western-influenced music for the past 27 years.
This year’s award recognizes his body of work over the past 12 months, including songs noted for their “emotional authenticity, vivid imagery, and timeless western themes,” according to a news release.
His 2024 album “Singing to Cows” was also named a category finalist for Traditional Western Album of the Year.
The award was presented during the annual IWMA Awards Ceremony, held Nov. 15 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where artists, fans and industry leaders gathered to celebrate excellence in Western music.
The 2025 IWMA voting process was juried, with all finalists evaluated by a panel of qualified judges — experts and professionals within the western music field — rather than through public voting.
The IWMA is dedicated to promoting the music, poetry and culture of the American west.
Through education, events and recognition of artistic achievement, the organization supports artists who preserve and advance western traditions.
Guenther became a member of the IWMA in the spring of 2022 when releasing his “American Outlaw: Volume 1” album, a two-part, nonfiction-based western project that debuted at No. 6 on the IWMA Western Music Radio Top 30 Chart.
He followed its release with “American Outlaw: Volume 2” in 2023, which reached No. 2 on the same chart a year later. Both albums enjoyed positive reviews and chart success on western radio formats throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe, according to the release.
Guenther’s music is currently streaming on all major streaming platforms. For more information regarding his regional performance schedule, visit www.chrisguenthermusic.com.
Guenther was also the winner of the Best Musician category in The Chronicle's 2025 Best of Lewis County awards announced earlier this month.
