Texan Johnson will be a tough act to top
Huntsville native closes show with an ode to his days as a bull rider
Cody Johnson makes other “country” singers seem like posers.
The Huntsville native, who grew up in a rural community outside of Lake Livingston called Sebastopol, imbues his music with a blend of grit, sincerity and subtle showmanship that’s missing from most of today’s superstars.
Just a few songs in, it was apparent Johnson’s second RodeoHouston performance was going to be tough to top this year.
His Saturday night show drew 74,177 paid attendance, more than anyone but Garth Brooks so far this season. The former bull rider and prison guard was a last-minute replacement in 2017 for country band Old Dominion.
Johnson has a layered rasp of a voice that echoes several greats, from George Jones to Randy Travis. It was perfectly showcased on tunes “Wild as You,” the Brad Paisley-esque “Grass Stains” and the spoken word verses of “Kiss Goodbye.”
He made the best use of the stage so far this season, rising up several times on the star points and frequently interacting with his band.
“Diamond in My Pocket” and “I Ain’t Going Nowhere Baby” were exuberant showcases for his band’s chemistry.
Johnson previewed a new album due this year with a raging outlaw anthem where he asks naysayers to “leave this longhaired country boy alone.”
He dedicated “With You I Am” to the crowd before closing with new song “Dear Rodeo,” an ode to his days as a bull rider.
And in true Texan form, Johnson was the first performer to skip the truck and ride out of the stadium on a horse. Expect to see him back next year for a third go-round.