Chris Janson Honored with 5x Platinum Award for ‘Buy Me a Boat’ at RIAA Event

Photo by Dan Swartz
WASHINGTON, DC (January 22, 2025) – Country superstar Chris Janson celebrated a major career milestone at the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) headquarters on January 20. Joined by RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier and Chief Policy Officer Morna Willens, Janson received a 5x Platinum certification for his breakout hit “Buy Me a Boat.” The presentation took place during a special event benefiting Musicians On Call, held in conjunction with the Presidential Inauguration.
“We don’t take these moments for granted… to recognize the incredible hard work and creative talent of an artist like Chris Janson. Congratulations on the now 5x Platinum hit ‘Buy Me a Boat!” said Mitch Glazier. “RIAA is honored to acknowledge not only this single, but his drive to ensure that all musicians can thrive. From the ELVIS Act in Tennessee to the federal NO FAKES Act, which protect the fundamental uniqueness of a person’s voice and likeness from irresponsible AI, we are proud of Chris’s continued advocacy.”
Janson’s visit to Washington highlighted the enduring success of his first No. 1 single and his dedication to protecting creators’ rights in an era of rapid technological change. During the event, he delivered a high-energy performance featuring fan favorites like “Fix a Drink,” “All American Guy,” “Good Vibes,” “All I Need Is You,” and his forthcoming single “Stay Rowdy,” set to release on January 31 under Big Machine Label Group’s Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment imprint. Janson also performed a patriotic medley of “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and “God Bless the USA.”
“It was an awesome time in the RIAA house and a complete surprise receiving the 5x Platinum award for ‘Buy Me a Boat.’ I’m totally humbled and grateful,” Janson said. “The ELVIS Act and NO FAKES Act are near to my heart and something I take very seriously. I’m proud to stand firmly behind each – helping protect artists and songwriters in a big way.”
Last year, Janson championed the ELVIS Act, which Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed into law. This bipartisan legislation enhances the state’s right of publicity laws by establishing protections against unauthorized use of a person’s voice and likeness through artificial intelligence (AI) deepfakes. Beyond Tennessee, Janson is advocating for the federal NO FAKES Act, a bipartisan initiative aiming to safeguard creators’ rights nationwide.
Janson’s passion for protecting musicians goes hand in hand with his artistry, which includes a catalog of heartfelt hits like “Done,” “Things You Can’t Live Without,” and “Drunk Girl.” As a songwriter, he has contributed to hits by Tim McGraw (“Truck Yeah,” “How I’ll Always Be”), Justin Moore (“Off The Beaten Path”), LOCASH (“I Love This Life”), Cody Johnson (“Let’s Build A Fire”), and Hank Williams Jr. (“God Fearin’ Man,” “Those Days Are Gone”).
Known for his electrifying live performances, Rolling Stone has described Janson as “a live legacy in the making.” He is a regular fixture at major country music festivals and tours, with upcoming dates as direct support for Kid Rock’s tour. For more information, visit www.chrisjanson.com.