On Sunday, March 23, just hours before wrapping up the 2025 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Luke Bryan received the event’s highest honor—induction into the prestigious Star Trail of Fame. The accolade cements Bryan’s legacy as one of RodeoHouston’s most beloved performers, making him only the 11th artist to receive this distinction.
Bryan’s impact on RodeoHouston is undeniable. With four of his shows ranking among the top 25 most-attended in the event’s history, he remains a major draw for country music fans. His 12th performance at the rodeo, held on Sunday afternoon, drew an impressive crowd of 71,103, further proving his enduring popularity.
A Star Among Legends
The 48-year-old country superstar joins an elite group of artists enshrined in the Star Trail of Fame, including Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Charley Pride, Elvis Presley, Gene Autry, George Strait, Reba McEntire, Roy Rogers, and Selena. The last artist to receive the honor was Brad Paisley in 2023.
A High-Energy Performance to Close RodeoHouston 2025
Bryan took the stage just after 6:45 p.m., kicking off the final concert of the rodeo season with his 2012 hit “That’s My Kind of Night.” Even as he approaches 50, his signature energy, hip-swiveling moves, and skinny jeans still manage to electrify audiences. Since his first RodeoHouston appearance in 2012, Bryan has played for over a million fans in Houston, with his record attendance reaching 75,242 in 2013.
Adding to the night’s festive atmosphere, Bryan led a tequila toast before performing “One Margarita,” raising a red Solo cup in celebration. He also gave a nod to his business ventures, as he now partners with the tequila brand Casa Azul.
Nostalgia and Connection with Fans
Sunday’s setlist balanced Bryan’s biggest hits with songs from his latest album, Mind of a Country Boy, released in September 2024. He performed “Love You, Miss You, Mean It,” a track that resonates with longtime fans.
A standout moment of the evening came when Bryan performed the emotional ballad “Drink a Beer.” Written by Chris Stapleton, the song offered a reflective interlude, allowing Bryan to connect deeply with the crowd. His ability to blend high-energy anthems with heartfelt ballads continues to win over both new listeners and country traditionalists.
Closing Out the Rodeo with a Bang
For the grand finale, Bryan brought the house down with his genre-defining hit “Country Girl (Shake It for Me).” Taking a victory lap around the rodeo arena, he high-fived fans, signed cowboy hats, and tipped his baseball cap in gratitude, ensuring an unforgettable close to RodeoHouston 2025.
As the dust settles and the city recovers from another legendary season, Bryan’s name now stands permanently among the greats in RodeoHouston history.
Luke Bryan’s RodeoHouston 2025 Setlist:
- That’s My Kind of Night
- Rain Is a Good Thing
- One Margarita
- Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye
- Love You, Miss You, Mean It
- What Makes You Country
- Knockin’ Boots
- Drunk on You
- Country Song Came On
- Drink a Beer
- Buy Dirt
- Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day
- Play It Again
- I Don’t Want This Night to End
- Country Girl (Shake It for Me)
With another unforgettable performance in the books, Luke Bryan continues to prove why he’s a staple of RodeoHouston and a country music icon.
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