Cody Johnson is set to take center stage at The American Rodeo on March 11, 2023, at the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. For the country star, this performance is more than just another gig—it’s a return to his roots.

Before becoming a household name in country music, Johnson was a rodeo cowboy, even riding bulls in his early days. Now, he’s coming back to one of the biggest rodeo events in the world—not as a competitor, but as the main musical attraction.

“I’ve been a big fan of The American Rodeo since it started,” Johnson shared with Country Now. “I’ve been able to attend a few times, and every year we end up watching it all day long because it’s such a special, unique event.”

The American Rodeo is known for its thrilling competition, where up-and-coming contenders have the chance to qualify and go head-to-head with the biggest names in the sport. Johnson recognizes the significance of this opportunity for riders, saying, “It’s a huge deal—not only for the rodeo world but for the pro-rodeo world as well.”

While Johnson has played at major venues, including sold-out stadiums, performing at a rodeo holds a different kind of meaning. His journey from the rodeo circuit to the country music stage was highlighted in his 2021 documentary, Dear Rodeo: The Cody Johnson Story.

“There’s a different feeling when I perform at rodeos—it’s like being with family,” he said. “When I played the Wrangler NFR in 2020, I looked at those yellow bucking chutes and thought, ‘As a kid, I always wanted to ride a bull out of one of those chutes.’”

For his American Rodeo set, fans can expect 30 minutes of high-energy music, with Johnson promising to give it everything he’s got. “People might come for the rodeo, but my job is to make sure they leave talking about the music too,” he said with a grin.

Johnson hinted that he might include Dear Rodeo in his setlist—a song that holds deep personal meaning. “Everyone at The American Rodeo has probably dreamed of competing at that level,” he explained. “Every cowboy and cowgirl wonders what it’s like to win a gold buckle, and I was one of those people.”

In true cowboy fashion, Johnson is also considering competing in the roping events—if he can find the time. “That would be the coolest double whammy ever,” he joked. “But let’s be honest—I sing a lot better than I rope.”

Johnson’s love for rodeo isn’t just personal—it’s becoming a family tradition. His daughters, Clara Mae (7) and Cori (5), have started riding, and his eldest already has big dreams. “She wants to be a barrel racer and a breakaway roper,” Johnson said proudly. “We’re easing them into it.”

Beyond reconnecting with old friends in the rodeo world, Johnson is looking forward to simply being himself. “It’s a tight-knit group, and when I’m at an event like this, I’m not ‘Cody Johnson the artist’—I just get to be Cody.”

Johnson’s career has skyrocketed over the past year, with over 40 sold-out shows, a Grammy nomination, and his first No. 1 hit with ’Til You Can’t. Reflecting on his journey, he remains humbled and excited for what’s next.

“It’s crazy to think I’ve been doing this for 15 years, and it feels like we’re just getting started,” he said. “These awards and accolades are amazing, but what really matters is that they’re helping us reach new fans.”

To cap off a monumental year, Johnson is releasing Cody Johnson & The Rockin’ CJB Live on December 2, featuring his longtime touring band. And with at least 65 shows already lined up for next year, he’s not slowing down anytime soon—though he does plan to carve out some quality family time.

“I know the whirlwind isn’t stopping,” he admitted with a laugh. “But I’m looking forward to every minute of it.”

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The season 23 premiere of American Idol (March 9) kicked off with an exciting round of auditions, including a standout performance from Baylee Littrell, the son of Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell.

Baylee, 23, had been teasing his Idol audition on social media ahead of the premiere, sharing a post that got fans buzzing: “Well guys😁 recently I had the opportunity to audition for @americanidol 🙏🏼 Tune in to see the season premiere and what happens on 3/9/25!” While many were excited, some skeptics wondered if Baylee needed the Idol platform given his already established career.

Baylee’s journey into music started early. At just 9 years old, he began opening for his dad’s group and later appeared in the Broadway musical Disaster! In 2019, he opened for both the Backstreet Boys on their DNA World Tour and for country artist Chris Lane. He also released his debut country album 770-Country that same year.

But when Baylee walked into the audition room, Carrie Underwood immediately recognized him. “There’s something about you that looks familiar,” she said before he revealed his dad’s identity.

Brian shared a heartfelt message about his son’s talent before the audition: “It’s not easy. I’ve always told everybody he’s 10 times more talented than I ever was.”

Baylee wowed the judges with an original song, leaving Carrie praising his emotional depth: “You’re really good. Like, you’re really good. You went there emotionally. I think you could go very, very far in this competition.”

To top it off, Brian joined Baylee for a brief duet, leaving Carrie starstruck. “I feel like for anyone else, having your superstar dad join you would make you look bad, but it doesn’t.”

With unanimous votes from the judges, Baylee advanced to Hollywood, and it was clear that his future in the competition was promising.

But Baylee’s story is about more than just being Brian Littrell’s son. When he was 6, he was diagnosed with Kawasaki Syndrome, a rare disease that causes inflammation of the blood vessels. His coronary artery was found to be three times the size it should be, but with timely treatment, Baylee made a full recovery. This experience has only added to the resilience that defines his path today.

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Carrie Underwood’s rendition of “Because He Lives” at the Ryman Auditorium was nothing short of breathtaking. Performing in the historic venue known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” she delivered the gospel classic with raw emotion and flawless vocals, creating a truly unforgettable moment.

As part of her My Savior album, a collection of cherished hymns, this performance felt deeply personal. She began softly, drawing in the audience with a gentle, heartfelt delivery before building to powerful, soaring high notes that sent chills through the crowd.

With every lyric, Underwood’s voice carried a message of faith and hope, filling the Ryman with a spirit of reverence. By the time she reached the song’s peak, the entire audience was spellbound, and as the final note faded, an overwhelming wave of applause erupted.

Her ability to blend country and gospel so seamlessly reaffirmed why she remains one of the most moving vocalists in music. In that moment, the Ryman wasn’t just a concert hall—it was a place of worship, transformed by the power of her voice and the timeless message of the song.

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In a truly moving collaboration, Lauren Daigle teamed up with Hillsong UNITED to create an unforgettable rendition of the classic hymn “How Great Thou Art” during Hillsong UNITED’s 2016 Empires Tour in Houston, Texas. The performance was a perfect blend of Daigle’s powerful, soulful vocals with the band’s dynamic sound, creating a moment of profound worship that left a lasting impact on everyone in the audience.

Originally written in 1885 by Swedish evangelist Rev. Carl Boberg, “How Great Thou Art” has become a beloved hymn worldwide, transcending cultures and languages. Its powerful message of awe and reverence has resonated through generations, especially after its 1957 performance by George Beverly Shea during a Billy Graham crusade, solidifying its place in worship services around the world.

Known for her raw, emotive voice, Daigle brought her signature style to this rendition, drawing listeners in with every note. The minimalistic arrangement highlighted her vocals, allowing the song’s message to take center stage. With just a few gentle instruments in the background, her voice soared, giving the hymn a fresh, emotional depth.

This collaboration didn’t just leave an impact in the venue but also on social media. The video of the performance quickly spread, sparking renewed appreciation for the timeless hymn. Fans shared how Daigle’s rendition helped them rediscover the hymn’s powerful message, and the harmony between her voice and Hillsong UNITED’s music resonated with worshippers from all walks of life.

For Daigle and Hillsong UNITED, the performance represented more than just music—it was a celebration of unity and shared faith. Both artists emphasized that the collaboration helped bridge cultural and denominational gaps, creating a communal experience of worship that brought people together.

As the last note faded, the audience was left in a spirit of quiet reflection, deeply moved by the beauty and power of the performance. Lauren Daigle’s partnership with Hillsong UNITED not only honored the rich history of “How Great Thou Art” but also breathed new life into its timeless message, reminding worshippers everywhere of the hymn’s enduring relevance in today’s world.

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At the 2018 Stagecoach Festival, Keith Urban, Dwight Yoakam, and Brothers Osborne came together for an electrifying performance of Fast As You, delivering a moment that country music fans won’t soon forget. The collaboration blended Urban’s signature modern country sound, Yoakam’s honky-tonk roots, and Brothers Osborne’s rock-infused edge, creating a thrilling, high-energy experience on stage.

Originally written and recorded by Dwight Yoakam in 1993, Fast As You is a classic that has stood the test of time. Urban’s powerful guitar riffs, Yoakam’s unmistakable twang, and Brothers Osborne’s rich harmonies gave the song a fresh, dynamic twist, proving how timeless great country music can be. Fans at Stagecoach were on their feet, singing along and cheering as these powerhouse artists fed off each other’s energy, making the performance a standout moment of the festival.

The chemistry between the three acts was undeniable, showcasing their respect for one another’s artistry and their ability to bring different generations of country music together. This collaboration wasn’t just about performing a song—it was about celebrating country music’s evolution and the genre’s ability to unite artists and audiences alike.

With roaring applause and a crowd that couldn’t get enough, this Fast As You performance was more than just a festival highlight—it was a testament to the magic that happens when legendary and modern country artists join forces on stage.

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Originally recorded by Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time, Murder on Music Row gained widespread fame when George Strait and Alan Jackson performed it at the 1999 CMA Awards. The performance struck a chord with country music fans, leading the duo to officially record the song in 2000. Their version climbed to No. 38 on the Hot Country Songs chart and became an anthem for those who long for the traditional sounds of country music.

Over the years, Murder on Music Row has become a symbol of the divide between classic country and its modern evolution. While fans cherish the Strait-Jackson version, Alan Jackson has occasionally invited another powerhouse vocalist to join him on stage for the song—Lee Ann Womack.

Womack, a longtime friend and collaborator of Jackson, first performed Murder on Music Row with him in 2017 at Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater. Their voices blended seamlessly, adding new depth to the song’s message. More recently, they reunited for a stirring rendition at the 2021 ACM Honors at the historic Ryman Auditorium.

This special performance was dedicated to executive producer RAC Clark, a recipient of the Mae Boren Axton Service Award and a longtime admirer of the song. Jackson and Womack’s heartfelt delivery honored both Clark’s contributions and the timeless spirit of traditional country music.

Their duet was a reminder of country music’s roots and the enduring power of storytelling through song. Watch their unforgettable performance and experience the magic for yourself!

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Ella Langley has had an incredible year, making waves in the country music scene. She dropped her debut studio album, Hungover, and found her way onto the Billboard Hot 100 with her hit collaboration, “You Look Like You Love Me” alongside Riley Green. She also teamed up with Kameron Marlowe for the song “Strangers.” Yet, Langley isn’t just focused on her own music. She took a heartfelt moment to honor country legend George Strait with a beautiful cover of his classic, “You Look So Good In Love.”

Originally released in 1983, George Strait’s “You Look So Good In Love” tells the story of a man watching his ex find true love with someone else. While he’s heartbroken, he comes to terms with the fact that she’s found happiness. Ella Langley gave her own twist on the song, sitting in a dimly lit room with just her guitar. Her soulful rendition received nearly 15,000 likes, with fans showering her with praise. One fan even suggested, “You should do Feeling Better while you’re rolling on the tour bus. That seems like the right setting ha!” Another wrote, “You’re so beautiful without makeup, just with an angelic voice.”

Langley also opened up about her nerves before performing, sharing that she often tells herself, “Don’t fall down.” After a recent fall on stage, she admitted she’s even more cautious now. But when the fall went viral, Riley Green gave her a piece of advice: “Just get up there and do your thing. Get up there and sing it.” Langley laughs, noting that even Riley, who exudes confidence, deals with his own pre-show nerves, though he jokes that he hides his emotions behind his mustache!

Ella Langley is quickly becoming one of country music’s brightest stars, and we can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next.

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On February 13, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama, Ella Langley wowed the crowd with an intimate acoustic performance of her song “Excuse the Mess.” The cozy venue, with its perfect acoustics, set the stage for Langley to showcase her incredible talent and authenticity, making the performance unforgettable for everyone present.

From the very first guitar strum, Langley’s voice filled the room with raw emotion and sincerity. Her clear, expressive vocals brought the song’s reflective lyrics to life, creating a deep connection with the audience. Throughout the set, she effortlessly blended traditional country influences with a contemporary acoustic sound, proving she’s not just a talented singer, but a storyteller who pours her heart into her music.

The performance turned “Excuse the Mess” into more than just a song—it became a powerful message of resilience and vulnerability. The room was filled with a sense of shared understanding, with fans hanging on every note and lyric. As the last chord faded, the crowd stood to their feet, giving Langley a well-deserved standing ovation. This acoustic set was a defining moment in her rising career, and fans can’t wait to see what she does next.

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Nothing—not even Mother Nature—can keep Lainey Wilson from delivering an unforgettable show!

The Heart Like a Truck singer took the stage on the Hudson River for the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks special, but it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. Strong winds whipped through the open-air rooftop stage, turning her performance into a real-life battle against the elements.

Did Lainey back down? Of course not! She powered through like a pro, wowing the crowd and viewers at home. After the show, she took to TikTok to joke about the wild weather:

“Fighting for my life in a real-life whirlwind 🤣.”

She shared a video of her performance, where her signature bell-bottoms and fiery red outfit dazzled—despite her hair swirling in every direction. The Louisiana native belted out her latest hit, Hang Tight Honey, without missing a beat. But one casualty didn’t make it to the stage: her matching red cowboy hat.

“Took me a solid 30 mins to detangle my hair after performing for Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks special 😂,” she added.

Lainey wasn’t the only country star lighting up the night. She shared the stage with Tanner Adell, The War and Treaty, and Latin pop star Luis Fonsi, while Mickey Guyton and Access Hollywood’s Zuri Hall hosted the celebration.

For a girl who grew up on a Louisiana farm, a little (or a lot of) wind is nothing new. And once again, Lainey proved that when she hits the stage, nothing can stop her—not even a full-blown rooftop storm. Hats off (literally) to another incredible performance!

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Winning multiple awards and writing seven No. 1 hits might make someone seem invincible, but even Kelsea Ballerini has her share of insecurities. The “Peter Pan” singer has always embraced vulnerability, and her 2024 album Patterns is proof of that—laying her heart bare for fans to connect with.

So when Ballerini, 31, found out that a young fan was being bullied just for loving her music, she didn’t hold back.

A Heartfelt Moment at Her Sold-Out Show
After spending a decade climbing the country music ladder, Ballerini is gearing up for a major milestone—headlining her first-ever arena tour in 2025. During her February 20th show at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, she performed for a packed house.

But amidst the sea of fans, one sign caught her eye. A young boy named Jacob held up a heartfelt message:

“I get bullied at school because I’m a boy and I love you. Can we take a selfie?”

Ballerini didn’t just take a selfie—she gave him a moment he’ll never forget. Kneeling down to meet Jacob at eye level, she shared words of comfort and wisdom.

“I guarantee you, every single person in here has had someone say something to them that hurt their feelings,” she said. “And I promise you, the person saying those mean things? They’re dealing with their own insecurities. They don’t know what they don’t like about themselves, so they take it out on others.”

Then, with a smile, she added, “That’s a big word, I know—I’ve been in so much therapy,” earning laughter from the crowd.

She continued, “But it doesn’t make it fair, and it doesn’t make it right. And I’m really sorry if anyone’s ever made you feel bad—that’s not okay. But you are okay. You’re more than okay. Are you having a good time? Because that’s all that matters.”

With that, Jacob’s night turned from heartbreaking to unforgettable, proving that sometimes, a few kind words from someone you admire can make all the difference.

@spooncer_

@Kelsea Ballerini is actually an angel. We 💕 you #kelseaballerini #kelseaballeriniconcert #wholesomemoments

♬ original sound – Spencer Kane

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