Cody Johnson's performance at the 2023 CMA Awards was the ultimate romantic gesture! It wasn't enough to sing his latest hit "The Painter," which is dedicated to his wife of 14 years Brandi Johnson, the Country star made sure everyone knew who the song was about by displaying a digital mural of her on a giant screen behind him and his band.
As Johnson passionately sang, the mural of Brandi gradually became more detailed, starting off black and white before transitioning into vibrant color with vines and flowers blooming around it. At the end of the performance, the cameras showed a visibly emotional Brandi in the crowd cheering on her husband. Sat next to her was actress Nicole Kidman, who was impressed by the romantic performance.
The 57th annual CMA Awards are hosted by Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning for the second year in a row as the Country Music Association celebrates the artists, songwriters, and producers making waves in the country genre. Lainey Wilson led the nominations with an impressive nine nods making her the only artist to ever lead the nominations in her first two appearances on the final ballot.
In addition to awards, A-listers will hit the stage to perform some of the biggest songs of the year including Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Dan + Shay, Jordan Davis, HARDY, Jelly Roll, Little Big Town, Ashley McBryde, Megan Moroney, Carly Pearce, Old Dominion, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, The War and Treaty, Lainey Wilson, and Zac Brown Band. Other performers include Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Mac McAnally, K. Michelle, Post Malone, and Tanya Tucker.