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.”
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122140126124471340&set=a.122119902284471340
