Ashley McBryde Celebrates Three Years Sober: ‘I Had to Let Go of Who I Was to Discover Who I Am’
By Website Content Manager
To celebrate the milestone, McBryde took a hike to a picturesque waterfall.
Ashley McBryde is honoring a powerful milestone in her sobriety journey, marking three years since giving up alcohol.
The “Ain’t Enough Cowboy Songs” artist took to social media to reflect on the transformation she’s undergone and to share her gratitude for how far she’s come.
“Three years ago today, I had my last drink,” she wrote. “It was the last time I was ‘that person’ in both my personal and professional life—the last desperate call for help, the final misstep that led to an intervention from those who care about me, and ultimately the turning point where I said, ‘This has to stop.’”
McBryde noted that the full story is only known to those close enough to be entrusted with such deeply personal details.
Recognizing the emotional toll and growth it took to reach this point, she expressed heartfelt thanks for the journey and for those who stood by her.
“Today, I’m guided by gratitude. It’s okay to grieve. I had to let go of an old version of myself in order to become who I am now. I have compassion for who I was—and for every phase of me that brought me to this place by the waterfall today. Thank you for letting me be here.”
To mark the occasion, Ashley McBryde celebrated with a peaceful hike to a scenic waterfall, sharing snapshots of the experience on social media. She also used the moment to offer encouragement to others who may be battling alcohol addiction.
“Spending time in nature was exactly the celebration I needed,” she wrote. “If you’re going through something similar, please reach out. You’re not alone — and you don’t have to be. You’d be amazed by how many of us are out here. I love you. Keep pushing forward.”
The post received an outpouring of support from fellow country musicians.
Terri Clark commented, “We all love ‘her.’ Congrats, sister. Your journey has been powerful and inspiring. You’ve saved your own life — and probably many others in the process.”
Priscilla Block added, “So incredibly proud of you! It’s been moving to watch you open up and share this with the world.”
Jake Owen, who has also spoken openly about his sobriety, praised McBryde, writing, “Well said. I’m really happy for you, and grateful you’re spreading this message.”
Recently, McBryde performed at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium as part of CMA Fest. She will return to television as co-host of the upcoming CMA Fest special, airing Thursday, June 26 at 8/7c on ABC and streaming the following day on Hulu.
That same day, she’ll also release her long-awaited recording of “Rattlesnake Preacher,” a song that’s become a fan favorite during her live performances.