Cody Johnson’s Unstoppable Rise: Stagecoach, COJO Championship, and a New Album That’s Captivating Fans
Cody Johnson, the Texas-born country music star, has had a remarkable 2025, marked by a series of high-profile appearances and exciting projects that have kept fans on the edge of their seats. With his return to major festival stages, the organization of his own championship event, and the release of a highly anticipated album, Johnson continues to solidify his reputation as one of country music’s most authentic and engaging voices.
In April 2026, Johnson is set to headline the Stagecoach music festival in Indio, California, one of the premier country music events in the nation. Known for its expansive lineup and festival atmosphere, Stagecoach brings together country icons, rising stars, and even cross-genre performers. This year, Johnson will share the stage with artists such as Lainey Wilson and Post Malone, promising an eclectic and vibrant musical experience. Fans attending Stagecoach are eagerly anticipating his set, not only for the hits that have defined his career but also for the unique energy Johnson brings to live performances.
Beyond the festival circuit, Johnson has taken his passion for rodeo culture and Texas heritage to a new level by organizing the COJO Championship, held from October 7 to 12, 2025, at the Cadence Bank Center Arena in Belton, Texas. The event, which combines top-tier roping competitions with live performances, aims to celebrate the spirit of the American West while supporting local communities and youth programs. Johnson’s commitment to this championship reflects his personal connection to rodeo culture and the broader country lifestyle, and it offers fans a unique opportunity to experience both the athleticism of roping and the charisma of a live Cody Johnson performance.
Amidst these high-profile endeavors, Johnson has also focused on his musical output. Following the success of his 2023 album Leather, he released Leather Deluxe in November 2024, an expanded version that includes thirteen new tracks. Among these, “C’mon, Cowgirl” has quickly emerged as a fan favorite, a heartfelt tribute to father-daughter relationships that showcases Johnson’s storytelling ability and emotional depth. He has shared that performing and recording this song with his own family present was an intensely moving experience, highlighting the personal investment that Johnson brings to his music.
Family continues to be a central inspiration in Johnson’s life and career. Married to his wife Brandi since 2008, the couple is expecting their third child, a son, in 2025. Their daughters, Clara Mae and Cori, have already inspired several of Johnson’s songs, including “I Know My Way Back (Clara’s Song)” and “God Bless the Boy (Cori’s Song).” Johnson often credits his family for keeping him grounded amidst the fast-paced and often unpredictable life of a touring musician. Fans have responded positively to these glimpses into his personal life, which reveal the man behind the stage persona.
Looking ahead, Johnson shows no signs of slowing down. His strategic combination of live festival appearances, community-focused events, and carefully crafted albums underscores a career that is both artistically ambitious and deeply connected to his roots. Whether performing at Stagecoach, orchestrating the COJO Championship, or crafting songs that resonate with personal and universal themes, Johnson continues to expand his influence in the country music landscape. His ability to blend authenticity, showmanship, and heartfelt storytelling ensures that each new project builds on the last, drawing both longtime fans and new listeners into his world.
In addition to his musical and event-related projects, Johnson has been outspoken about his desire to give back to the community that has supported him throughout his career. The COJO Championship, in particular, has been framed not just as a competition, but as a means to provide opportunities for youth and emerging talent in rodeo sports, blending entertainment with mentorship. This dual focus on performance and philanthropy further enhances Johnson’s reputation as an artist who genuinely cares about the culture and communities that shaped him.
As the 2026 festival season approaches and fans anticipate the next chapter in Johnson’s career, the combination of live performances, family-centered inspiration, and a compelling album like Leather Deluxe ensures that Cody Johnson remains a central figure in contemporary country music. His trajectory demonstrates how authenticity, hard work, and a willingness to invest in both personal and professional projects can create lasting impact in the entertainment world. For fans and newcomers alike, Johnson’s journey offers a compelling narrative of dedication, talent, and the power of connecting with an audience through music and shared experiences.
From Stagecoach to the COJO Championship and beyond, Cody Johnson’s 2025 and 2026 projects illustrate a career that balances mainstream success with deep personal significance. It is this combination that has endeared him to fans and established him as one of the most compelling voices in country music today.