Photo courtesy of Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
On Mar. 16, 2026, alt-country band Cross Canadian Ragweed performed at RODEOHOUSTON® for the first time in two decades. The year 2006 marked the group’s last performance at NRG Stadium before their hiatus from Oct. 2010, to Apr. 2025.
More than 55,000 fans gathered to celebrate the unique and soulful musical works of Cross Canadian Ragweed.
Concertgoers belted the lyrics of their most beloved songs from the band’s five studio albums prior to their hiatus. Cody Canada led the band as they stayed authentic to Red Dirt style music throughout their RODEOHOUSTON® show.
Attendees were captivated by the gritty sounds of the Oklahoma band as they listened to crowd favorites such as “17,” “Sick and Tired” and “Alabama.” The unexpected comeback created a sense of nostalgia for those who followed the group throughout their career, as well as those who grew up in the South.
The creative works of Cross Canadian Ragweed are considered a crucial influence on the modern-day alternative country scene, specifically Red Dirt country. Canada and his fellow band members are recognized alongside other artists in the genre, including Turnpike Troubadours, and Stoney LaRue. Rolling Stone characterized Cross Canadian Ragweed as “underrated pioneers.”
Photo courtesy of Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Cross Canadian Ragweed connected with fans through their vocal expertise and lyrical storytelling.
Dedicated fans compensated for open seats by remaining standing throughout the night, dancing and singing along with the band.
At the start of the performance, Canada announced the group’s reunion and expressed gratitude to the city of Houston. The crowd roared during the opening number “I Believe You,” when the band rephrased the lyrics from “I believe in the truckers,” into “I believe in the Astros.”
Cross Canadian Ragweed paid homage to country singer Robert Earl Keen by highlighting Canada’s use of his guitar. “I have Robert Earl Keen’s guitar, and he said hi,” stated Canada. Keen has been a longtime friend and supporter of the band and continues to be in this new era.
The Rodeo performance marked a well-deserved milestone in the band’s career and highlighted their legacy as a trailblazer of Red Dirt country. While new artists may currently be popularizing this sphere of country music, Cross Canadian Ragweed has cemented itself as foundational to its development.
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