As much as I try to always be positive in this column, I find myself struggling some days to seek out a new artist that I really like. Not that I don’t enjoy a lot of the music that is out there; I do. But those one-of-a-kind country singers seem to be few and far between, at least for me.

Cody Johnson is one of those. This Texas artist has six self-released albums to his credit and I suppose in this age of advanced digital recording, you really don’t need a big record deal to record quality music and push it out through digital platforms.

Johnson doesn’t have to worry about that; he has a deal with Warner Music, and a new release entitled “Ain’t Nothin’ to It.” His music is lighting up the charts and he is being recognized as one of the hottest “new” artists out there … if you can call 13 years in the business new.

While many young singer/songwriters play to just about any crowd they can find, Cody Johnson is singing in front of sold-out crowds. This guy is real country and has that traditional sound in his voice. During a recent show (yes, it was sold out) at the Ryman Auditorium, he dedicated part of his show to the artists that inspired him.

The country stars of today who truly recognize the legends that inspired them have a front page in my book of favorites. No matter what we do, music-wise or otherwise, we should always remember the people who laid the pavement before us.

Johnson does that. His voice is tough when it has to be, and lullaby-like when his song choice changes. Having left a career in rodeo before devoting all his time to music, he may not like the lullaby reference, but he can belt a song out or cradle one like a baby.

You really have to hear this guy, if you haven’t, to understand that. I take spells when I’m bored with the musical selections wandering around on the charts these days – but Cody Johnson will not bore you.

By the way, we may share the same last name, but to my knowledge, we are not related. Although, I would gladly refer to him as my talented distant cousin anytime.

Bluegrass Johnson comes from a long line of country music performers and enjoys a passion for the rhythm and melody. From the hills of Kentucky, he will offer his opinions on a variety of music. Readers with questions or comments may write to Johnson in care of this publication.