The 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) has finally arrived and is happening between March 2-22! As Texans, it’s difficult to overstate the importance of this event that’s been running annually since 1932. As Houstonians, well, there’s a reason they call this time of year “Rodeo Season.”

But as music enjoyers, there’s another, very well known reason to look forward to the rodeo every year: the musicians. Every year, the rodeo hosts a varied lineup of music artists (primarily Country artists, but Latino and pop fans get their own dedicated days as well).

This year has quite the selection, kicking off the event with yesterday’s performance from country artist Riley Green, most recognizable for his 2024 triple-platinum hit “Worst Way.” He is the first of 15 country performers in this year’s lineup.

For tonight’s performance, audiences can look forward to seeing Columbian singer J Balvin, whose music is identified as a cross of several genres including Reggaeton, Bachata, R&B, and Trap. Known for his stage presence and ability to liven up a crowd, his 2018 song “Mi Gente” is one to listen for.

On Friday March 6th, the HLSR will be hosting a Black Heritage Day, with Lizzo as the featured performer. She has many hit songs and was even featured in the “Barbie” film with her song “Pink”. Some other hit songs of hers are “Truth Hurts,” which became popular during COVID, and “About Damn Time,” which came out in 2022.

Musicians such as Luke Bryan and Chris Stapleton are two well-known artists in the country industry who will also be performing during this year’s rodeo. Their signature songs, like “Tennessee Whiskey” (Chris Stapleton) and “Country Girl (Shake It for Me)” (Luke Bryan) are mainstream country staples and fantastic gateways into the genre.

The extraordinary Kelly Clarkson will also be making an appearance at this year’s rodeo! An American singer and TV personality, Kelly Clarkson–fun fact–is originally from Fort Worth, Texas.

Another Latino artist paying homage to Texas’ multicultural heritage, Pepe Aguilar is set to perform for Go Tejano Day on March 15. Pepe Aguilar is also originally from Texas, receiving recognition for his Mexican infused Rock and Pop music. Some of his most popular and recognizable songs are “Tu Sangre en mi Cuerpo” and “Prometiste.”

With this many artists, the HLSR is a wonderful event for newcomers, tourists, or even locals–such as myself–to get a taste of what Texas has to offer. For more information, visit the official Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo website for more information or to purchase tickets.