Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ: TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, has announced an exciting new collaboration with CMA Award-winning country music artist Cody Johnson for the return of its Life Out Here Emerging Artist Program. This initiative, which celebrates the authentic voices and stories of rural America, invites aspiring country artists from across the nation to share their music and compete for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to advance their careers.
Starting today and running through December 1, 2025, eligible musicians can enter the contest for a chance to travel to Nashville, Tennessee, where they will perform before a private Cody Johnson concert, record a song at one of the city’s legendary studios, and meet with a top music industry executive. The program’s goal is to provide mentorship, exposure, and career development to talented artists whose music captures the heart of country life — the kind that Tractor Supply calls “Life Out Here.”
Cody Johnson’s Personal Connection to the Program
Cody Johnson, who has built his career on authenticity, hard work, and staying true to his roots, expressed deep enthusiasm for joining Tractor Supply’s initiative.
“I’m so proud to team up with Tractor Supply for their Emerging Artist Program, shining a spotlight on up-and-coming artists who have something real to share,” said Johnson. “My high school FFA teacher was the first person to encourage me to perform. I took the stage, and that moment ended up changing the course of my life. He believed in me, and now it’s my turn to help give someone that same encouragement.”
Johnson’s story mirrors the spirit of the program — that great talent can come from anywhere, including small towns and rural communities where country music is not just entertainment but a way of life. His partnership with Tractor Supply aims to help emerging artists access the same kind of support and mentorship that once propelled him to stardom.
Building on the Success of the 2023 Program
The Life Out Here Emerging Artist Program first launched in 2023 with Lainey Wilson, one of country music’s most celebrated new voices. That inaugural program received widespread acclaim for its authentic approach to discovering and supporting rising stars who embody the country lifestyle.
Through mentorship, recording opportunities, and public performances, Tractor Supply helped turn local dreamers into recognized talents. The partnership with Cody Johnson continues that mission, amplifying the retailer’s commitment to promoting the next generation of country musicians who represent rural America’s values, hard work, and storytelling traditions.
Kimberley Gardiner, Chief Marketing Officer at Tractor Supply, emphasized that the initiative aligns perfectly with the brand’s community-driven ethos.
“The tradition of lifting up our neighbors is one of the foundations of Life Out Here,” said Gardiner. “It’s in that same tradition that we’re joining forces with Cody to open doors for other aspiring artists. Our communities are home to amazing musicians whose songs reflect the lifestyle we all love. We’re here to give them a platform to share their music — and help bring their talents to a bigger stage.”
A Deep Connection to Country Life and Community
Beyond its commercial success, Tractor Supply has long been recognized for its support of rural communities, agriculture, and youth development. Its partnership with Cody Johnson is a natural extension of these efforts, combining music, mentorship, and community engagement into one inspiring platform.
Earlier this month, Tractor Supply served as the presenting sponsor of Johnson’s COJO Championship Team Roping event, which benefits the Texas FFA — a reflection of both Tractor Supply’s and Johnson’s shared dedication to supporting young people in agriculture. Tractor Supply is one of the largest funders of FFA programs in the United States and continues to champion causes that strengthen rural America and foster the next generation of leaders.
This year’s Emerging Artist Program builds on that same spirit of empowerment and community. It is designed to help artists who come from small towns, farms, and backroads share their music with a broader audience while staying connected to their roots.
Opportunities for Contest Participants
Contestants selected for the program will enjoy a range of unique opportunities designed to propel their musical careers. Winners will:
- Travel to Nashville, the heart of country music, for an exclusive experience.
- Perform before a private Cody Johnson concert, gaining exposure to both fans and industry professionals.
- Record a track in a legendary Nashville studio, working with seasoned producers and sound engineers.
- Meet with a major music industry executive for career advice and networking.
- Receive national visibility through Tractor Supply’s promotional platforms, including its “Life Out Here” marketing campaign.
This combination of creative opportunity, mentorship, and visibility is intended to help artists transition from local stages to national recognition — much like Cody Johnson himself once did.
Commitment to Authentic Storytelling
Tractor Supply’s Life Out Here brand message centers on authenticity, hard work, and connection to the land — values deeply woven into country music. The company’s growing involvement in the music world reflects how deeply those values resonate with artists and fans alike.
By aligning with Cody Johnson, an artist who embodies integrity and resilience, Tractor Supply is reinforcing its identity as more than a retailer — it’s a cultural bridge connecting people who live, work, and make music in rural America.
Official Rules and Entry Details
The Life Out Here Emerging Artist Contest is open to legal residents of the contiguous 48 United States, the District of Columbia, and Hawaii who are at least 21 years old. The submission period begins at 12:00 a.m. ET on October 15, 2025, and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. ET on December 1, 2025.
No purchase is necessary to enter. Entries will be evaluated based on creativity, originality, and alignment with the program’s “Life Out Here” theme. For official rules, complete details, and entry instructions, participants can visit TractorSupply.com/EmergingArtists or TSCLifeOutHereMusic.com.
Void in Alaska, Puerto Rico, and where prohibited or restricted by law. The contest is sponsored by Tractor Supply Company, headquartered at 5401 Virginia Way, Brentwood, TN 37027.
Strengthening the Bond Between Music and Rural America
With its latest partnership, Tractor Supply is once again proving that its mission extends far beyond retail. By investing in the dreams of emerging artists and championing rural creativity, the company continues to strengthen the cultural fabric of the communities it serves.
As Cody Johnson summed it up, the heart of the initiative lies in paying it forward — in giving talented individuals from rural America the belief, tools, and opportunity to shine. Whether on a small-town stage or in the spotlight of Nashville, Tractor Supply’s Life Out Here Emerging Artist Program represents what country music has always stood for: authentic voices, real stories, and the power of community.
