Country music superstar Cody Johnson brought his headlining “Leather Deluxe Tour” to Fiserv Forum on Friday night. With a sold-out crowd, a powerhouse setlist, and a commanding stage presence, Johnson proved why he’s one of the genre’s brightest stars.
Johnson’s career has been built on authenticity and an unshakable connection with his fans. From rodeo arenas to some of the biggest stages in the country, his journey to headlining big arenas like Fiserv Forum is a testament to his raw talent and work ethic.
Fans showed up ready to sing along to every word. They wore their best cowboy boots and hats, and the energy inside the venue was undeniable, from the moment Cody Johnson hit the stage, it was clear this would be a night to remember.
If you weren’t in the crowd for this one, here are 8 reasons why you shouldn't have missed Cody Johnson’s sold-out Milwaukee tour stop.
1. A Sold-Out Crowd
Johnson has built a reputation for delivering some of the best live performances in country music, and Milwaukee showed up in full force. Fiserv Forum was packed to the brim, proving that Johnson's loyal fans were ready for a show. The energy was electric from start to finish, with the crowd singing along to every word.
2. An Explosive Opening
Johnson wasted no time setting the tone for the night, kicking things off with the new and old; "That's Texas", followed by "Me and My Kind" and "Dance Her Home." From the first note, the crowd was fully engaged, and Johnson’s top notch stage presence took center stage. The high-energy start set the pace for what would be an unforgettable evening.
3. A Month Full of Country All-Stars
Milwaukee has been a hotbed for country music so far in 2025, and Cody Johnson’s show was the latest in a string of must-see performances. Just last week, Kelsea Ballerini rocked the Fiserv Forum, and Johnson’s show built on that momentum, proving that country music is thriving in Milwaukee.
4. "Leather" is the CMA Album of the Year
Friday's set list featured songs from Johnson’s acclaimed album “Leather”, which recently took home the CMA Album of the Year award. Seeing songs like "That’s Texas" performed live gave an added layer of excitement to an album that’s already making waves across country music.
5. A Packed Setlist
Unlike some concerts that feel too short, Johnson gave fans everything they could have hoped for with a massive setlist of over 20 songs. From fan favorites like “The Painter” to deep cuts like “People In The Back”, there was something for everyone in attendance. Johnson also did more than his fair share to keep the audience engaged all night long.
6. A Surprise “Cameo” from Carrie Underwood
One of the most memorable moments of the night came when Fiserv Forum alum Carrie Underwood appeared on screen for a duet of "I’m Gonna Love You." Though she wasn’t physically there, her presence elevated the performance, and the crowd went wild as two of country’s biggest stars shared the spotlight (in a sense.)
7. The Encore: "Long Haired Country Boy"
For the grand finale, Johnson delivered an electrifying encore performance of "Long Haired Country Boy." Originally recorded by The Charlie Daniels Band, Johnson’s version brings new life to the classic. The moment was the perfect capstone to an already great show.
8. A Powerful Supporting Lineup
Before Johnson even hit the stage, the crowd was treated to stellar performances from Ashley McBryde and Drew Baldridge. McBryde, a Grammy-winning powerhouse, delivered a set filled with raw vocals and storytelling, while Baldridge continued his meteoric rise with a crowd-pleasing performance. Their sets were the perfect warm-up for the main event.
If you missed Cody Johnson’s Leather Deluxe Tour stop in Milwaukee, you missed one of the best country concerts of the past year. Next time Cody Johnson rolls into town, make sure you’re in the crowd—because performances like these aren’t to be missed.
