Cody Johnson, the rising country music star, was seen rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest names in the industry at the 2025 Academy of Country Music Awards. The event, which took place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, was a star-studded affair with performances from the likes of Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood. But it was Johnson’s encounter with Billboard’s Lyndsey Havens and Tetris Kelly that caught everyone’s attention.
As Johnson made his way down the red carpet, he stopped to chat with Havens and Kelly, who were covering the event for Billboard. The trio engaged in a lively conversation, with Johnson sharing his thoughts on the ACM Awards and his music career so far. Dressed in a sharp black suit and cowboy hat, Johnson exuded confidence and charm as he spoke with the two journalists.
Havens, who has been with Billboard for over a decade, was impressed by Johnson’s easy-going nature and genuine passion for music. She described him as a “breath of fresh air” in the country music scene, which is often dominated by established artists. Havens also praised Johnson for his authenticity and dedication to his craft, which has earned him a loyal fan base.
Kelly, who is known for her in-depth interviews with some of the industry’s biggest names, was equally impressed by Johnson’s down-to-earth personality. She was particularly interested in his latest album, which has been receiving rave reviews from both critics and fans. Johnson’s music, which is a blend of traditional and modern country, has struck a chord with listeners and has cemented his place in the genre.
The ACM Awards 2025 proved to be a memorable night for Johnson, who not only caught up with Billboard’s journalists but also walked away with two awards. He won the coveted Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year for his latest release. As he took the stage to accept his awards, Johnson thanked his fans, family, and team for their unwavering support. He also gave a special shoutout to Havens and Kelly for their kind words and for always supporting his music.
Johnson’s meteoric rise in the country music world is a testament to his hard work and determination. The Texas native started his career playing in small bars and honky-tonks before catching the attention of major labels. His debut album, “Ain’t Nothin’ to It,” was released in 2023 and quickly climbed the charts, earning him a spot on the prestigious Grand Ole Opry stage.
With his soulful voice and relatable lyrics, Johnson has become a fan favorite, and his popularity continues to soar. He has sold out shows across the country and has even headlined major music festivals. But despite his success, Johnson remains humble and grateful for the opportunities that have come his way.
As the ACM Awards 2025 came to a close, Johnson bid farewell to Havens and Kelly, promising to catch up with them again soon. The three exchanged a warm hug, and Johnson made his way to the after-party, surrounded by his team and loved ones. It was a night to remember for the rising star, and it’s safe to say that this is only the beginning of Cody Johnson’s journey to country music stardom.
In a world where the music industry is constantly evolving, Cody Johnson stands out as a true country artist, staying true to his roots and delivering music that resonates with listeners. His encounter with Billboard’s Lyndsey Havens and Tetris Kelly at the ACM Awards 2025 was a reflection of his genuine personality and passion for music. And as he continues to make his mark in the industry, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented artist.
