Cody Canada found his love for music at the age of five when his parents took him to a George Strait concert. From that point on, music soared through his veins and soul. 

As an artist, rocker, father, legend, Texas-based Canada is dedicated to his craft and needs little introduction. He’s no stranger to rocking out on stage. I mean, he’s done it 19 times at MusicFest, the festival that (in a non-pandemic year) draws thousands of ski-lovin’, music-lovin’ folks to Steamboat, Colorado each January.

This year, with the 2021 festival cancelled, Canada is being honored by MusicFest as a Tribute Artist for its 35th anniversary, with a collaborative release called “The Years: A MusicFest Tribute to Cody Canada & The Music of Cross Canadian Ragweed.” 

The tribute record features MusicFest favorites like Randy Rogers, Wade Bowen, Stoney LaRue, Reckless Kelly, Casey Donahew, and many more of Americana and Texas music’s best. The digital album is out now, while the physical street date is set for January 22 for both CD and vinyl. 

A wearer of many hats, Canada is the frontman of Cross Canadian Ragweed and Cody Canada and The Departed; He’s also taught at the School of Rock in New Braunfels, Texas. (Which he and his wife, Shannon, opened.)

We caught up with the multi-talented music legend to discuss music and life. 

What was it like for you growing up in Pampa, Texas?

I actually left Pampa when I was 2 years old, so I don’t remember much. My dad worked in the oilfield, so we relocated to Oklahoma in 1978.

What first got you into music?

My dad and my older sister, Marty, always had music playing in the house so I was exposed to a lot of different stuff. I saw George Strait when I was 5 and immediately knew that I wanted music to be my life.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

Sheryl Crow

What made you and your wife open up the School of Rock in New Braunfels?

A couple reasons. One being our boys. They wanted to play music and wanted to play with kids their age. The other was Shannon’s aunt. Her Aunt Sandy fostered over 30 kids. So, Shannon wanted to continue her legacy with helping kids who felt like they didn’t “fit in” anywhere.

If you hadn’t become a musician, what would you be doing right now?

Probably working in the oilfield and hating life.

What is one message you would give to your fans?

I appreciate that you stuck with me through the changes. Thank you!

What’s next for Cody Canada?

I will continue to put out singles. It’s new and fresh for me to be able to release one song at a time.

Cover photo courtesy Cody Canada

Leean Vargas is an Editorial Assistant at Texas Lifestyle Magazine and an honors graduate of
Texas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations.