Cody Johnson performing at the Whitewater Amphitheater in New Braunfels, Texas on May 29, 2021, with Jody Bartula, Jake Mears, Joey Pruski, Miles Stone, Harrison Yount, and Cody Johnson. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Growing up in Sebastapol, Texas, he heard music from the honky tonks across the Trinity River. He learned drums and guitar and started writing songs while still in junior high. A teacher encouraged Johnson to form a band, and they finished first runner-up in a Texas State Future Farmers of America talent contest.
Johnson’s passionate, rowdy concerts have already drawn comparisons to Garth Brooks, and the music from his previous albums, inspired by ‘90s country foundations, but built for the 21stcentury, has made him a familiar presence on Texas and Oklahoma red-dirt radio.
Much like one of his heroes, the late Chris LeDoux, Johnson hit the rodeo circuit and made his first album during that time, selling self-financed CDs from his pickup as he chased the elusive eight-second dream. But broken bones and the cost of competition took their toll, and he eventually ditched life as a rodeo pro who played music on his off days to become a prison guard in Huntsville who played clubs on the weekends. The crowds began to grow, and he pieced together a string of hits on the Texas music charts. Plus, he snagged the Texas Regional Radio Music Award as Male Vocalist of the Year. His wife, Brandi, shocked him when she agreed he should go after music as a full-time job.
Now, one of country’s most-sought-after, formerly unsigned musicians is matched with one of Nashville’s most influential labels, at his peak with a traditionally-built sound just as country music is experiencing a ‘90s revolution. Cody Johnson was a hold out for all the right reasons. And now he’s part of a team, again for all the right reasons.
"He has a ton of energy on stage and makes sure to interact with the crowd and gets everyone pumped up and he has a dedicated fan base that sings along to all his songs. "Cody Johnson was the main act at the Whitewater Amphitheater with guest Kevin Fowler. They continue across the United States with the last stop at the The Masonic Temple Theater in Detroit, Michigan on October 23, 2021.
"Cody Johnson never disappoints! I’ve been to a handful of shows and let me tell you this one was the best one yet!"
"Highly recommend! I have been following him since day one. Gone to every concert and he never disappoints. I will definitely be at the next one."
"Cody Johnson ALWAYS brings a high energy show, no matter the size of the venue! One of my all time favorite shows and artists...can't wait to catch him again!"
Cody Johnson
web | facebook | twitter | instagram
Photos by Ralph Arvesen
web | facebook | twitter | instagram