For generations, the rodeo has been a cultural heartbeat of the American West – dust, boots, bulls, and the unmistakable sound of country music filling the air. But to John PayCheck – son of the legendary Johnny PayCheck – something felt wrong at a recent rodeo in Deschutes County. And he couldn’t stay silent.
A troubling realization
In a candid Facebook post, John shared his concern: “When I was younger and at the rodeo, you heard country music. Today, not so much. I could count on one hand the number of country songs played.” That’s not just a passing complaint – it’s a reflection of a deep shift in how rodeos are evolving, and perhaps, what they are leaving behind.
Rap, pop, and rock – but no more country?
John acknowledged that each rodeo is different, but what troubled him was the consistent replacement of traditional country with modern genres – in an effort, he believes, to cater to younger audiences. “They want exciting music and think that rock n roll, rap, or pop might appeal more to the youth. But it really doesn’t help. I saw many in the crowd less than thrilled with today’s music choices.”
Losing the soundtrack of the West
More than just personal frustration, John’s post serves as a warning. Removing country music from the rodeo environment doesn’t just change the vibe – it chips away at the very identity of the western heritage the rodeo is meant to preserve. “Leaving country music behind helps to destroy the very culture they’re trying to uphold and preserve,” he wrote.
A call to action
John’s message wasn’t just a lament. He urged people to take part in preserving the culture. “Tell your local rodeo you’d like to hear more traditional country songs in the mix – to help maintain western heritage and the country lifestyle.”
Why does this matter so much?
The PayCheck name is woven into the fabric of country music. Johnny PayCheck, John’s father, gave voice to the working-class struggle through hits like “Take This Job and Shove It.” His songs represented the values and grit of real people – especially those connected to rural life and western traditions. John, having grown up on the road and stage with his father, knows exactly what country music represents. To him, rodeo without country music is not just incomplete – it’s a contradiction.
A fading way of life?
In his post, John said something that hits deep: “The effort to save a genre from itself is not much different than trying to save a way of life that is slowly being lost.” It’s not just about sound – it’s about soul.
Is anyone listening?
Whether rodeo organizers will take notice is uncertain. But one thing is clear: more and more voices like John’s are beginning to rise, calling attention to the quiet shifts that could alter the essence of American traditions. Country music and rodeo were born from the same soil – and separating them risks losing what makes each meaningful.
🎵 Suggested listening: “Old Violin” – Johnny PayCheck – a poignant reflection on time, tradition, and holding on before it slips away.