WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Tenn. — Country singer and songwriter Jamey Johnson was arrested in Williamson County, Tennessee the day before his performance at the CMA Awards, according to reports.
According to The Tennesseean and Rolling Stone, a Tennessee Highway Patrol Officer stopped Johnson for speeding south of Nashville on Nov. 19. He was charged with possession of drugs “with intent to manufacture, deliver or sell the controlled substance.” according to court records. If convicted, Johnson could get up to six years in prison under Tennessee law.
A day after his arrest, the 49-year-old performed as part of a tribute to George Strait, performing his hit “Give It Away,” which Johnson wrote.
Johnson has also written hit songs for other country artists.
Known for his rich, deep voice, the award-winning singer just released a new album called “Midnight Gasoline” in early November. It includes songs that reflect his struggle with alcohol.
“On ‘Midnight Gasoline,’ I have songs like ‘Sober’ and ‘Tired of It All’ that naturally feel like (his previous material) in that, on ‘Sober’ for instance, it’s about my continuing battle for sobriety,” Johnson told The Tennesseean. “I haven’t craved a drink for 13 years, but I’m always one sip away. Making the daily decision to remain sober is not easy, but it’s possible.”