Both Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood are opening up about their new duet, “I’m Gonna Love You,” out next week. The song, written by Chris Stevens, Kelly Archer and Travis Denning, is from a new album from Johnson, expected to be released later this fall.
“From the moment I heard this song, I heard Carrie’s voice on it. It was a non-negotiable for me; either we sing it together, or I wouldn’t sing it at all. It’s that special to me,” Johnson said. “Working with Carrie has been an absolute pleasure. She’s not only one hell of a singer, but she’s a class act all the way around. It warms my heart to work with someone who’s seen so much success in their career and they’re still so down to earth. I feel like this duet is going to be massive in so many ways, and I couldn’t be prouder of it!”
Underwood, who also has a duet, “Leave A Light On” out with Papa Roach, has been a longtime fan of Johnson, even before they collaborated on a song.
“From the time I first heard his voice, I knew Cody had something special,” said Underwood. “I’m excited for our fans to hear this special collaboration.”
Johnson and Underwood recorded “I’m Gonna Love You” more than a year ago, but the father of two was happy to wait until the time was right for both of them to share the song with the rest of the world.
Stars are gonna light up a midnight sky.. #NewMusic #COJONation #CountryMusic pic.twitter.com/Qvv9KnIJNj
— Cody Johnson (@codyjohnson) September 17, 2024
“The issue is, when you’re dealing with an artist of that caliber; you have to be very respectful of their time,” Johnson explained (via iHeartCountry). “You have to be respectful of their tour when they’re releasing an album when they’re releasing a single … Carrie was so gracious to work with. I respect her so much as a vocalist and an artist. I think a lot of newer artists would have got that [collaborations]. and said, ‘Look, I have a duet with Carrie Underwood! Look, look, look!’
“I’m very thankful she did it, so I don’t care when it comes out,” he added. “I know that it’s done. I know that when the timing is right, it will be beautiful.”
The Texan previously said his duet with Underwood would be on the deluxe edition of Leather, his 12-track album released last November.
“This is where Cody Johnson is in his life personally and creatively,” Johnson told CMT when the record was released. “Now, next year, you’re going to get the second half and it’s going to be the deluxe edition. We’ll talk about that Cody then.”
Johnson is nominated for five CMA Awards, for Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year for Leather, Single of the Year for “Dirt Cheap,” and two nominations in Music Video of the Year, for both “The Painter” and “Dirt Cheap.” The video for “Dirt Cheap’ starred music legend Red Steagall, and undoubtedly helped propel the song to becoming Johnson’s third No. 1 hit.
“I’m Gonna Love You” will be out on Friday, September 27. Pre-order/pre-save is available here.
Johnson is currently headlining his Leather Tour. Find all of Johnson’s music and upcoming shows at CodyJohnsonMusic.com.