The event, which runs through March 20, will feature a diverse lineup. Nine performers will take their first spin around the rotating stage inside NRG Stadium, including Ricky Martin and rock band Journey. Several fan-favorites will also make a return. Among them, the indefatigable George Strait, who will close out the event’s 90th year.
This will mark the Texas native’s 31st RodeoHouston performance. He made his debut, quite by chance, 39 years ago. When country music star Eddie Rabbitt was unable to perform due to an illness, RodeoHouston organizers scrambled to fill the gap in their lineup. Several names were tossed around. Among them, a promising up-and-comer. During his impromptu rodeo debut, Strait stole the show when he rode around the Astrodome arena on a horse, waving his hat and shaking hands with the audience.