Cody Johnson Shares the Unexpected Way He Still Keeps in Touch With Former Inmates

Before Cody Johnson became one of country music’s biggest stars, he lived a life most fans probably never imagined: he worked as a prison guard in Texas when he was just a young man starting out. That chapter of his life might seem worlds away from sold‑out arenas today, but it still plays a real role in who he is — and how he connects with people.

In a recent conversation, Cody revealed something both surprising and deeply human: some of the inmates he once supervised have actually reached out to him now that he’s famous. Rather than ignore them, Cody says he’ll genuinely meet up with a few of those former inmates for a beer. He laughs when he talks about it, calling the moments “awkward,” but also meaningful — a reminder of how unpredictable life can be.

When he does connect with these old acquaintances, Cody’s message is simple but powerful: “Stay out.” It’s a bit of friendly advice wrapped in tough love, reflecting his belief in second chances and encouragement for others to build better lives beyond prison walls.

Cody’s time as a corrections officer happened early in his life, working at the state penitentiary in Huntsville, Texas. He took that job coming out of high school — even while pursuing music on the side — before deciding to leave it behind and follow his passion full‑time. That leap of faith paid off: he went on to become a chart‑topping singer known for his gritty, authentic style and heartfelt storytelling on stage.

What’s striking about this story isn’t just the “before‑they‑were‑famous” twist — it’s how Cody embraces his past and uses it to uplift others, even those whose paths once crossed with his in challenging circumstances. For fans who admire his music and his journey, it’s another layer of why Cody remains one of country’s most grounded and relatable stars.