Ashley McBryde Marks Three Years Of Sobriety: ‘A Version Of Me Had To Die So I Could Become Myself’

McBryde marked the milestone with a hike to a scenic waterfall.

By

Lauren Jo Black

| Posted on

June 12, 2025

at

3:25 pm

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Ashley McBryde; Photo by Kayla Schoen for CMA

Ashley McBryde is celebrating another milestone in her sobriety journey as she marked three years without alcohol. 

The “Ain’t Enough Cowboy Songs” singer took to social media to share a message of gratitude and reflect on the time that has passed since she took her last sip of alcohol.  

“Today marks 3 years. Since my last drink. My last time being ‘that guy’ in my social and professional circles. The last panicked phone call for help. The final slip up that caused the intervention from those that love me and the shift in me allowing me to say ‘that’s enough.’,” she began. 

Photo Courtesy of Ashley McBryde
Photo Courtesy of Ashley McBryde

She admitted that the full details are known “ by those who are deserving of such painful information.” 

After acknowledging the pain and growth it took to get to this point, McBryde expressed expressed appreciation for the journey and for those who supported her.

“Gratitude is the guiding light today. Grief is okay. A version of me had to die off so I could become myself. I have love for her and every other version of me that had to exist so I could stand by this waterfall today. Thank you for the ability to stand here,” she continued. 

To celebrate the occasion, the Arkansas native went on a waterfall hike and shared several photos from the outing. She later encouraged others who may be suffering with alcoholism to reach out if they need help.    

“Celebrating by connecting to Mother Earth was just the kind of party I needed. If you’re struggling, reach out,” she shared. “You aren’t alone and don’t have to be. You’re gonna be delighted at how many of us there are. I love you, keep going.”

Several country artists left comments to showcase support for McBryde. 

Ashley McBryde; Photo by Katie Kauss
Ashley McBryde; Photo by Katie Kauss

“And we all love ‘her.’ Congratulations sister. It’s been an inspiring transformation. You have not only saved your own life, but there’s no telling how many others, along the way,” Terri Clark shared. 

“So so proud of you! It’s inspiring watching you share your story with the world,” Priscilla Block added. 

Jake Owen, who is also on a sobriety journey, applauded McBryde for sharing her story.

“Well said. Very happy for you and also for sharing your message,” he wrote. 

Ashley McBryde, Cody Johnson; Photo Courtesy CMA
Ashley McBryde, Cody Johnson; Photo Courtesy CMA

Ashley McBryde recently appeared in Nashville for a performance at Nissan Stadium during CMA Fest. She’s set to co-host the CMA Fest special on ABC alongside Cody Johnson, which will air Thursday, June 26 at 8/7c on ABC and will be available to stream the next day on Hulu. 

On June 26, McBryde will release her fan-favorite rendition of “Rattlesnake Preacher,” which has been a staple in her live shows in recent years. 

“‘Rattlesnake Preacher’ has been a staple in our live show since the bar days, and we’ve constantly been asked by fans when it’ll make it onto a record,” McBryde shared. “As we were gearing up for my second year of co-hosting CMA Fest, it felt like the perfect time to finally get this one out there. It’s my way of saying thank you to the fans who have shown up, listened and gave this song life long before it was ever recorded.”

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Lauren Jo Black

Written by

Lauren Jo Black

Lauren Jo Black, a University of Central Florida graduate, has immersed herself in the world of country music for over 15 years. In 2008, she co-founded CountryMusicIsLove, eventually selling it to a major record label in 2015. Following the rebranding of the website to Sounds Like Nashville, Black served as Editor-in-Chief for two and a half years. Currently, she assumes the role of Editor-in-Chief at Country Now and oversees Country Now’s content and digital footprint. Her extensive experience also encompasses her previous role as a Country Music Expert Writer for Answers.com and her work being featured on Forbes.com. She’s been spotlighted among Country Aircheck’s Women of Influence and received the 2012 Rising Star Award from the University of Central Florida. Black also spent time in front of the camera as host of Country Now Live, which brought live music directly to fans in 2021 when the majority of concerts were halted due to the pandemic. During this time, she hosted 24 weeks of live concerts via Country Now Live on Twitch with special guests such as Lady A, Dierks Bentley, Jordan Davis, Brett Young, and Jon Pardi. Over the course of her career, she has had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry’s most prominent stars, including Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, and many others. Lauren Jo Black is a longtime member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.