East Texas' Cody Johnson Breaks RodeoHouston Attendance Record

There's a new RodeoHouston record holder, and his name is Cody Johnson. At Sunday night's finale, I was one of 80,203 fans who packed into NRG Stadium to see CoJo's high-octane performance. Not only did that break the previous record for the largest crowd in RodeoHouston history, but it also smashed the record for most attended single event in NRG Stadium history.

KICKS 105/Danny Merrell

The Groveton, Texas, native showed why he is the reigning CMA Male Vocalist of the Year, and why (IMHO) he should be the frontrunner for Entertainer of the Year. Anyone who has seen Cody Johnson in concert, whether a few years ago at Banita Creek Hall or the Nacogdoches Expo Center, or more recently at one of his big arena shows, knows that CoJo leaves every last ounce of energy on the stage. He also allows his heart to be exposed, testifying on stage of his faith in Jesus, our country, and in our first responders and veterans.

Remember When The Nacogdoches Expo Crowd Introduced CoJo On Stage?

Surprise Appearances At CoJo's Record-Breaking Show

When Cody started singing the first few lines of "I'm Gonna Love You," I wondered who he would have sing Carrie Underwood's duet vocals. The crowd went crazy when it was Carrie herself who came on stage to sing.

KICKS 105/Danny Merrell

Cody also brought Carin Leon on stage to sing their duet, "She Hurts Like Tequila".

Cody Johnson's History at Rodeo Houston

Sunday night marked CoJo's 6th headlining performance at RodeoHouston. He first appeared in 2017 as a last-minute substitution for Old Dominion, who had to cancel due to a death in the band's family. Johnson was also a surprise guest for Jelly Roll's rodeo performance in 2024. Cody's previous high mark for attendance was over 73,000 fans for his 2023 show.

Johnson surpassed the previous attendance record of 80,020, set by George Strait's 'concert-only' show in 2013. Cody joked on stage that someone should alert Strait that he no longer holds the record so that Strait could reschedule another RodeoHouston performance soon so that he could reclaim the title. CoJo said he would buy front-row tickets to that show.

Here's what Cody had to say about the new record:

Top 20 Cody Johnson Songs Adored by COJO Nation

Cody Johnson has a way of captivating his fans with his heartfelt delivery and powerful, rugged vocals. His ability to get a crowd fired up and also draw them in for a sentimental ballad is unmatched. Although most know him for his hits "Human" and "'Til You Can't," Johnson has been rocking the stage for quite some time. Let's take a look at his Top 20 songs.