Cody Johnson made the award show debut of his brand new single, "The Painter," on the 2023 CMA Awards on Wednesday, Nov. 8.
Dressed in a baby blue suit and his signature cowboy hat in white, Johnson locked eyes with the camera as he sang the tune that undoubtedly reminds him of his wife, Brandi. He stayed still at the microphone with guitar in hand for the performance, but as he sang, a beautiful mural began to come to life behind him. At first it was just a black and white photo of Brandi, but as the performance went on, color began to show up on her face, hair and clothing.
The band continued to play as Johnson sang the lyrics penned by Benjy Davis, Kat Higgins and Ryan Larkins. Soon enough, the mural behind Johnson was full of color, and flowers surrounded the photo of the woman. The strong and meaningful performance made for a great representation of the song and Johnson's artistry.
Johnson released "The Painter"on August 11, 2023 as the lead single from his latest album, Leather. The album was released on Nov. 3 and serves as the first installment of an upcoming double album. The project features 12 tracks, including duets with Jelly Roll and Brooks & Dunn.
Johnson comes into the awards show with one nomination for Male Vocalist of the Year. He is nominated alongside Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton and Morgan Wallen.
Country music's biggest night is hosted by Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning and features performances from Bryan, Carly Pearce and Chris Stapleton, Jelly Roll, Kelsea Ballerini, Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown Band and Mac McAnally (Jimmy Buffett Tribute), Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs and many more. The show airs Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 8 p.m on ABC. It will be available to stream the next day on Hulu.
