In case you had any doubts that Cody Johnson lives "the cowboy life," let's put that uncertainty to rest right now.
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The next edition of the Hondo Rodeo Fest kicks off in Phoenix on November 7. Not only will this three-night event feature plenty of ropin' and riding from some of the best to ever buck a bronco, it will also feature performances by Jason Aldean, Jon Pardi, Riley Green, and Nickelback(!?).
Fans of Johnson are in for a special treat as they have two chances to see the "On My Way to You" singer: on the stage and on horseback.
Wait ...Cody Johnson Ropes Cattle?
This news shouldn't come as a surprise to Johnson's fans. He has said he wrote his duet with Reba McEntire, the autobiographical song "Dear Rodeo", as if the sport was "the love that got away."
Of course, everything worked out for Johnson, as leaving the rodeo life allowed him to pursue a career in country music.
Still, Johnson hasn't left the sport completely. As we reported earlier this year, roping remains a passion for him.
"Team roping has always been a huge part of my life. It's my refuge from the stage and the spotlight," he said. "When I'm on horseback with a rope in hand, I'm not the guy on tour or in the studio, I'm just a cowboy, and that's who I've always been at heart."
In fact, before the Hondo Rodeo Fest in November, next month will bring the second year of Johnson's COJO Championship Event in Belton, Texas. This event, much like the Hondo Rodeo Fest, features some of the most elite ropers from around the world to compete for "life-changing prize money." The event takes place Oct. 7-11.
Johnson Is Actually Going To Compete
In a recent interview with KMLE, a country radio station in Phoenix, Hondo Rodeo Fest CEO James Trawick explained that this isn't some promotional appearance.
"He's actually going to rope at the Hondo this year," said Trawick. "Fans are going to get to see him ride and rope at the Hondo for the first time ever. Pressure is on Cody. It's out there. It's in the public."
It sounds like Johnson has a legit shot. It's just too bad we'll have to wait a few months to find out.
