Cody Johnson: The Leather Deluxe Tour
From cowboy hats, to belt buckles, saluting troops, and singing iconic hits.
Country music artist Cody Johnson hailed to be one of the “real” country music artists of current country music, rolled into the Ford Center in Evansville, IN on Saturday, February 1st to play for 11,000 people on his “Leather Deluxe” tour.
The 36-year-old Texan welcomed everyone with a mix of Texas soundtracks that brought the country spirit, followed by a fiddlin’ riff with “That’s Texas”. Johnson is no stranger to showing patriotism and God-honoring gestures during his shows. Regularly showing his respect for law enforcement, military, and first responders at every tour stop. This isn’t anything new to country music, but the degree of passion varies.
Johnson has made a statement with his unique approach though. When the country artist took the stage Saturday night with renderings of his songs “Me and My Kind, Dance Her Home, With You I Am”, there was a refreshing feeling of genuine country in the air.
“Dear Rodeo”, his collaboration with Reba McEntire from the 2019 album Ain’t Nothin’ To It, got an immediate reaction from the fans, as did “Nothin’ On You”, where Johnson’s vocal style echoed that of George Strait. Johnson also reminded the crowd about how old they were with Napster and burning CDs.
“Take It Like A Man” was a new addition to his music that brought the hype and groove with an insane guitar riff. Slower and more intimate songs brought out the emotions of Johnson. He reminded everyone that we’re all still learning how to be “Human”, in the crazy world we live in.
“Georgia Peaches” brought home the feeling of true bluegrass music. Bringing instruments such as a banjo, dobro, cajon, and fiddle, you felt the rhythm and soul in the room. Life’s struggles, faith and personal struggles were high listed during “The Fall”. A song that brings a darker side to the show yet brings a sound similar to Garth Brooks.
“People In The Back” came with a groove and rhythm thanks to the band being sensational. Bass player Joey Pruski, longest standing member and fiddle player Jody Bartula, steel guitar player Harrison Yount, keys player Seth Wilson, the man with the mustache, lead guitar player Jake Mears and drummer Miles Stone make up the CJB (Cody Johnson Band) Although behind Johnson, they knew how to include the crowd.
Visuals for Johnson’s show were kept at lower maintenance, focusing on one thing and one thing only – the music. Smaller video boards were taken into account on each side of the stage with a larger led board behind. The middle board came in handy when it came to the hit “I’m Gonna Love You” featuring Carrie Underwood.
Leading into showing the crowd that they were “Made In The USA” by recognizing the individuals who serve and have served our country. Thanks to these folks, we live in a place where unity exists. Johnson and his band made their way through the award winning singles “Dirt Cheap” and “The Painter”, before reaching the Grammy Award winning song “‘Til You Can’t”. The encore featured Johnson’s rendering of “Travelin’ Soldier”, a song that has been blowing up on the internet and a great representation of his love for the country he calls home.
Cody Johnson’s “Leather Deluxe” tour is a testament to his authenticity and deep-rooted connection to classic country music. From honoring those who serve to delivering powerful performances of both high-energy and soul-stirring songs, Johnson captivates the audience with a mix of heart, tradition, and patriotism.
Johnson’s performance was more than just a concert – it was a celebration of what it means to be a true country artist in a time when authenticity is rare.
