Since 1972, the CMA Fest has brought country music fans four days of musical celebration. Hosted by the Country Music Association, it draws some 400 artists to Tennessee for half a week of autograph opportunities, performances, and fun. This year, though, was particularly special thanks to a surprise duet between the legendary Reba McEntire and Cody Johnson.
With over 75 million album sales worldwide, McEntire has more than earned the title of Queen of Country. She kicked off her career in ’75 and hasn’t stopped since, gearing up to release a new album called Not That Fancy this fall. Cody Johnson, meanwhile, began in 2006 and has already has an album that peaked at number two on Billboard‘s Country Albums chart. So, what does it look like when the two team up?
Reba McEntire surprised fans in a duet with Cody Johnson
CMA Fest kicked off on June 8 and lasted until June 11. On Night 2 of Johnson’s set, fans were treated to two times the talent when McEntire walked onto the stage. Attendees would be forgiven for missing this unexpected surprise, but those who were not present for that particular twist still had a chance to see it.
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The CMA Fest television special aired on Wednesday, July 19 and provided a close-up look at McEntire teaming up with Johnson. First, Johnson performed “Til You Can’t,” then a cover of McEntire’s “Whoever’s in New England.” The latter didn’t stay as a solo cover for long, however, as McEntire chose then to appear, to the stunned – sometimes tearful – delight of the spectators.
This isn’t the first rodeo between Reba McEntire and Cody Johnson
Compared to -year-old McEntire, Johnson is something of a newcomer. Both have performed at rodeos and it holds a special place in their hearts; so, it makes sense that the two collaborated for “Dear Rodeo,” which appeared in Johnson’s album Ain’t Nothin’ to It.
For the majority of the song, McEntire provides harmonies, before coming in at the end with the powerful lyrics, “Dear rodeo, I like to think you miss me too, but I know you don’t/that won’t change the past and change the truth/I’m still in love with you.”
“It was a thrill to get to sing ‘Dear Rodeo’ with Cody because we’re both from the rodeo world,” said McEntire.
“I feel like everybody has their own ‘Dear Rodeo’ story and when I found out that Reba was impacted by this song enough to want to do a duet, it was probably one of the coolest things I’ve ever done in my career,” added Johnson.
Check out the sweet moment in the video below!