The music world is buzzing with the announcement of a highly anticipated national tour that brings together two of Texas’ most celebrated artists: Grammy Award-winning R&B vocalist Leon Bridges and Grammy-nominated country, blues, and Americana singer-songwriter Charley Crockett.
Billed as “The Crooner & The Cowboy Tour,” this series of performances celebrates the deep friendship, shared roots, and rich musical heritage of these two distinct Texas voices. The tour, spanning late summer and early fall of 2025, promises an unforgettable journey through soul, country, and the myriad sounds of American Roots music, showcasing the synergy between two artists at the peak of their powers.
Leon Bridges: The Soulful Crooner
Leon Bridges, born Todd Michael Bridges in Fort Worth, Texas, has carved a unique path in contemporary music since his debut. Known for his timeless storytelling and genre-bending sound, Bridges first gained widespread acclaim with his 2015 album “Coming Home.” The album, recorded with vintage equipment and drawing heavily from 1950s and ’60s soul and R&B, earned him a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Album and platinum certification. His subsequent releases, including “Good Thing” (2018) and “Gold-Diggers Sound” (2021), continued to garner Grammy nominations and critical praise, further solidifying his reputation as a masterful R&B artist.
Bridges’ music is characterized by his smooth, emotive vocals and a sophisticated blend of classic soul with modern sensibilities. He has consistently evolved his sound, exploring collaborations and pushing creative boundaries, most recently with his 2024 album “Leon,” which was recorded in Mexico City and produced by Ian Fitchuk and Daniel Tashian. His career trajectory, from performing at open-mic nights to headlining major venues and festivals globally, is a testament to his authentic artistry and captivating live performances.
Charley Crockett: The Maverick Cowboy
Charley Crockett, a San Benito, Texas native, has established himself as one of the most prolific and compelling artists in Americana and country music. With a career marked by an independent spirit and a relentless touring schedule, Crockett has released over 15 studio albums since 2015, each exploring different facets of American roots music, including country, blues, soul, and R&B.
His musical style, often described as “Gulf & Western,” draws from a vast palette of influences, fusing traditional country and blues with a raw, road-worn storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences. Crockett’s recent acclaimed releases include “The Man From Waco” (2022), which garnered multiple Americana Music Honors & Awards nominations, and the live-to-tape album “$10 Cowboy” (2024), which earned him his first Grammy nomination. His latest album, “Lonesome Drifter,” released in early 2025, further showcases his evolving sound and storytelling prowess.
Crockett’s journey from busking on street corners to selling out renowned venues like Red Rocks and the Ryman Auditorium is a narrative of hard work, authenticity, and an unwavering dedication to his craft. His distinctive persona and music embody the spirit of the “cowboy” – independent, resilient, and deeply connected to the American landscape.
“The Crooner & The Cowboy” Tour: A Celebration of Shared Roots
The “Crooner & The Cowboy” moniker perfectly encapsulates the essence of this unique collaboration. Bridges and Crockett, who first crossed paths in Dallas’ Deep Ellum a decade ago, share a profound mutual admiration and a decade-long friendship forged through shared experiences in the music industry.
“Me and Charley Crockett have been chasing this dream side by side for a decade,” Leon Bridges shared. “We grew up in this thing together. From the smallest clubs you can imagine—places where you could hear a pin drop, or sometimes, folks talkin’ over the music. But we kept on grinding! Now to be able to share a stage and bring this tour to big rooms and amphitheaters… man, it feels full circle.”
This tour is more than just a concert; it’s a cultural event that highlights the enduring appeal of genuine musicianship and the rich tapestry of Texas music. It offers fans an opportunity to experience two distinct yet complementary artists sharing a stage, delivering their celebrated catalogs with authenticity and passion.
Tour Itinerary and Special Guests
The “Crooner & The Cowboy Tour” officially kicked off with a special performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on June 5, 2025. The extensive run of dates will then resume across the United States from August through September 2025. Key dates include:
* August 26: Milwaukee, WI – BMO Pavilion
* August 28: Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage
* August 31: Portland, ME – Thompson’s Point
* September 4: Forest Hills, NY – Forest Hills Stadium
* September 5: Philadelphia, PA – The Mann Center
* September 12: Raleigh, NC – Red Hat Amphitheater
* September 13: Charleston, SC – Credit One Stadium
* September 14: St. Augustine, FL – St. Augustine Amphitheatre
* September 20: Oklahoma City, OK – The Zoo Amphitheatre
* September 21: The Woodlands, TX – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
* September 23: Austin, TX – Moody Center
A rotating cast of esteemed artists will join as special guests throughout the tour, including notable acts like Reyna Tropical, Dave Alvin, and Jimmie Dale Gilmore, adding further depth and variety to the music events.
Philanthropic Endeavor
Adding to the tour’s significance, $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to Leon Bridges’ charity, The Big Good. This initiative underscores the artists’ commitment to giving back and supporting causes that align with their values, amplifying the positive impact of their music and platform.
Significance and Anticipation
The “Crooner & The Cowboy” Tour represents a significant moment for both artists and for fans of authentic American music. It’s a testament to the power of friendship, shared artistic vision, and the deep connection these artists have to their Texas roots. The tour promises a blend of smooth soul and rugged country, soul-stirring ballads and high-energy performances, all delivered by artists who remain true to their distinct sounds while celebrating a shared passion for music.
This collaboration offers a unique opportunity to witness two of modern music’s most compelling storytellers join forces, creating a memorable series of music festivals and concerts that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the live music circuit.
