Let the predictions begin

RodeoHouston reveals 2026 genre lineup and prediction contest for fans

Perhaps Zach Top will return in 2026.

Courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Once the holiday season ends, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will be right around the corner. To help build a little anticipation for the annual event, the rodeo has shared the concert genre calendar for 2026.

Held March 2-22, the roster will feature 15 country artists, including on opening night and a concluding, concert-only performance by Texas-born star Cody Johnson. March 3 will see a Latin artist, while March 6’s R&B concert for Black Heritage Day could mark the fifth year in a row with a headlining performance by Houston hip-hop legend Bun B and whatever roster of superstars he assembles.

A Christian artist will perform on March 8. The rock artist on March 11 could be a second chance for Journey, which had its 2025 concert abruptly canceled when a fire broke out on stage.

After a pop act on March 14 and a second Regional Mexican artist on March 15, the lineup goes country all the way to Johnson’s closing performance.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will feature lots of country singers.Courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Back in March, CultureMap contributor Craig Hlavaty made some suggestions for acts that would be worthy of the HLSR’s star-shaped stage. They included returning favorites like Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, and Los Tigres del Norte, as well as up-and-comers like Shaboozey and Nate Smith.

The rodeo will reveal the artists at the lineup announcement on Thursday, January 8. Between now and then, fans can participate in the third annual Guess the Lineup Contest. Sponsored by Cotton Holdings, the winner will receive a private suite for 18 people, including food, beverages, and five single day parking passes for one RodeoHouston concert of their choice. See entry rules and more information here.

the people's champ

Houston rap star Paul Wall blasts off with concert at intergalactic art venue

Courtesy of Meow Wolf

Paul Wall and Lil' Keke will appear at Meow Wolf in March.

Two Houston hip-hop stars are teaming up for a one-night-only performance in a venue that’s out of this world. Paul Wall and special guest Lil’ Keke will perform at Meow Wolf on Saturday, March 7.

Held at Meow Wolf’s Theta Theatre, the after-hours show will blend Houston rap with the interactive art installation’s interdimensional experience. Tickets ($65) are on sale now for the performance, which will begin at 10 pm and is limited to people who are 21 or older.

“Radio Tave was built with nights like this in mind,” general manager Aaron Johnson said in a statement. “Paul Wall performing inside the exhibition brings Houston music into a space designed for sound to hit, linger, and surround you. This is a powerful moment for the venue and for the city.”

The Grammy-nominated Wall is known for songs such as "Sittin' Sidewayz," "Girl," and "They Don't Know," along with features on songs such as Nelly's "Grillz" and Mike Jones' "Still Tippin’.” He’ll be joined by Lil’ Keke, a longtime member of the Screwed Up Click who helped pioneer Houston’s signature slowed-down sound. The duo have collaborated on a number of tracks, including “Break Em' Off," "Ridin 5," and "Chunk Up the Deuce."

Meow Wolf opened Radio Tave, its Houston installation, in 2024. It guides visitors through an East Texas radio station that’s been transported to another dimension. Houston musicians, including rapper Fat Tony, contributed to the experience. Cowboix Hevvven, the venue’s honky tonk-inspired dive bar, features a jukebox with songs recorded by Texas artists for Meow Wolf. It received two 2025 Webby Awards for Webby Award (Critics' Choice) and the People’s Voice Award for Best Installation or Experience in AI, Immersive & Games.

concerts meow wolf