Cody Johnson Honors His Wife, Brandi, With Moving CMA Awards Performance Of ‘The Painter’

Cody Johnson radiated romance on the CMA Awards stage as he brought his current single “The Painter” to life.

As he delivered the heart-pounding lyrics amid the emotionally charged instrumentals, an image of the country star’s wife and muse, Brandi, was brushed onto the background, creating a stunning piece of artwork.

Co-written by Benjy Davis, Kat Higgins and Ryan Larkins and produced by Trent Willmon, “The Painter” pays tribute to the person who always sees an opportunity to grow, lend their support, and overall, bring brightness and color into the darker days. Although Johnson didn’t have a hand in writing the swoon-worthy tune, he made it clear that he was able to easily relate the tender lyrics to the kindhearted spirit of his other half. 

Brandi, who was present for the performance, gave her husband a standing ovation with a teary-eyed glance of love at the end of his powerful performance.

Ahead of this year’s CMA Award celebration, Cody Johnson brought his classic country style to the CMA red carpet alongside his beautiful wife with their blue-toned looks.

The CMA Male Vocalist of the Year nominee’s blue jeans have made a return along with a simple yet classic light blue blazer. Of course, no Cody Johnson look would be complete without a pair of cowboy boots, a crisp-white cowboy hat and stand-out belt buckle. Brandi proudly stood by his side while wearing a slim-straight blue dress with a flower pattern that flows all the way down to the bottom and stylish gold pumps.

How did Cody Johnson And His Wife Meet?

The “’Til You Can’t” singer and Brandi first met when he was in the midst of figuring out his career path. At the time, he was recovering from a bull riding accident and working as a chain gang overseer in a prison, while also recording his music in his garage and performing at small gigs on the side.

They later solidified their relationship by moving in together and saying, “I Do.” Eventually, Brandi encouraged Johnson to quit his job at the prison and make music his top priority. To further show her support, she quit college and picked up two jobs. Thanks to her motivation and encouragement, Cody Johnson is now a major award-winner, chart-topping artist, and true representation of authentic country music. 

New Music & Upcoming Tour

“The Painter” appears on his just-released Leather album, which features seven brand new tracks as well as several advanced releases turned fan favorites such as “Work Boots,” “Watching My Old Flame,” “That’s Texas,” and his current single “The Painter.” 

The project is just an “appetizer” for what’s to come for Johnson, as he revealed that a deluxe edition is on the way with 12 additional songs, making for a total of 24 tracks.

In support of the album, Cody Johnson is set to launch the first leg of his 2024 The Leather Tour on January 19 in Sacramento, CA. Aptly named after his brand-new album, the trek is set to include dates in Arizona, Tennessee, Kansas, Arkansas, Florida, Alabama, and Ohio.

Special guests during the first leg include Justin Moore, Dillon Carmichael and Chris Janson.

57th Annual CMA Awards

Co-hosted by Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, the 57th Annual CMA Awards are set to air live tonight on ABC (8:00-11:00 PM/EST). The star-studded show will feature performances by Kelsea Ballerini, Jelly Roll, Luke Bryan, Luke Combs, Dan + Shay, Jordan Davis, Cody Johnson, Ashley McBryde, The War And Treaty, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, and more. 

Always known for epic collaborations, the 2023 CMA Awards will feature a Jimmy Buffett tribute from Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Mac McAnally, and Zac Brown Band, a not-to-be-missed performance of country classics from Wallen, Post Malone, and HARDY, a performance honoring The Judds from Jelly Roll and K. Michelle, plus special duets from Carly Pearce and Chris Stapleton, Old Dominion and Megan Moroney, and Little Big Town with Tanya Tucker.  

Paula Abdul, Bill Anderson, Nate Bargatze, Kevin Cahoon, Jordan Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Sara Evans, Brian Kelley, Lady A, Martina McBride, Parker McCollum, Craig Morgan, Darius Rucker, Corey Seager, Gerry Turner, Keith Urban, Hailey Whitters and Chris Young will appear to present during “Country Music’s Biggest Night.” 

Those who are unable to watch the show in real-time can watch the CMA Awards the following day on Hulu.