Cody Johnson Pays Tribute to Merle Haggard With ‘Footlights’ Cover on 10-Year Anniversary of His Death

Cody Johnson is honoring one of his musical heroes, Merle Haggard, with a cover of “Footlights,” released today, which also marks the 10-year anniversary of Haggard’s passing. The release is made even more meaningful as Haggard was born on this day in 1937.

“Footlights” was written by Haggard, lovingly known as the “Poet of the Common Man.”

The song offers an honest look at life as a touring musician, something Johnson can certainly relate to. It captures the feeling of aging and wear that comes with life on the road, and the sense of being displaced without a place to truly call home. On stage, he masks those emotions, transforming into almost a character as he performs, promising to “try to hide the mood I’m really in/ And put on my old Instamatic grin.”

He closes the song by reflecting on the reality behind living out his dream: “I live the kind of life that most men only dream of/ I make my living writing songs and singing them/ But I’m forty-one years old and I/ Ain’t got no place to go when it’s over.”

Johnson, the reigning CMA Male Vocalist of the Year, has paid tribute to Haggard many times throughout his career and considers him to be one of his biggest musical influences.  

“Merle was a poet,” Cody previously shared. “When I’m happy, when I’m sad, when I’m frustrated, and everything in between, he has sung the soundtrack of my life.” 

In 2025, Cody Johnson was honored with the ACM Spirit Award for his authentic, songwriter-driven country music that carries forward the legacy of Merle Haggard. The award celebrates artists who chart their own course while delivering standout storytelling and songs, marking a full-circle moment for Johnson as he continues to honor one of his greatest musical influences.

Johnson is gearing up for a huge year with more new music on the way following a ruptured ear drum that sidelined him last fall. During an appearance on Dale Brisby’s Rodeo Time podcast, the Texas native revealed that his next album is completely finished and ready to go. 

“I’ve already got the whole gun is loaded. The ammunition’s there. We’re just fixing to start sending it,” he teased.   

Cody Johnson is currently climbing the charts with his radio single “The Fall,” written by Bobby Pinson, Jeremy Stover, and Ray Fulcher, from his Leather Deluxe Edition album.

He’s also keeping the momentum going on the road. His headline tour continues this April before heading overseas and wrapping up in Europe this fall