Rural roots link rodeo, country music star

Country artist Easton Corbin said his new song “Marry That Girl,” is about getting back to his roots and what makes him love country music and makes him a perfect fit for the Douglas County Rodeo, inaugurated three years ago.

Organized by Bailey Sanchez, Justin Schlag and Brooke Sullivan in September 2021 the rodeo returns to the Douglas County Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday.

“We wanted to bring a family-friendly event to our community one that celebrates the agriculture and heritage of our community,” said Sanchez.

Sanchez of Triple S Productions said the event has grown since its inauguration, highlighting local and out of state talent both from rodeo competitors and musicians.

“We are not associated with the Reno Rodeo at all, but we bring the same opportunity and experience to our town in an affordable and attainable way.”

Corbin, who headlines the Saturday event said he’s looking forward to performing at the Rodeo.

“I love playing rodeos, it’s different than a normal show because the energy is different,” he said, “you have the rodeo and countryside feel going on and it’s just a lot of fun.”

Born and raised in Tretton, Fla., on a small cattle farm, Corbin is no stranger to rodeos and the country lifestyle. He grew up with a connection to agriculture and country music and always knew where it would take him.

“I spent a lot of time with my grandparents who had a big influence on me, and I grew up listening to Merle Haggard and Hank Williams,” he said. “I always knew what I wanted to do but was told I needed an education first, so I graduated in 2006 from college with a degree in agriculture and went straight to Nashville after that.”

Corbin has been gracing stages since, with his blend of traditional and modern country music tied together by personal and experienced influences with No. 1 singles “A Little More Country than That,” and “Roll with It.”

Saturday’s concert will be his second time in Douglas County. He performed at the TJ’s Corral in Minden in 2019. Other performers and headliners throughout the weekend include Jenna Paulette, Jake Jacobsen and the Josh Abbot Band. 

“I’m going to play some hits, some new stuff and a cover or two and just have a good time,” said Corbin. “I promise anyone who comes out will have a good time.”

Sanchez said tickets provide access to all activities for the day purchased.

“There has been some confusion on what is included in the tickets, so I just want to clarify that one ticket includes the two-hour rodeo show, free-style motocross show, free kids day which has bounce houses, a petting zoo and more, and then the two concerts,” she said. “There will be bull riding, broncs, a group of trick riders, and more along with vendors and food trucks.”

Tickets may be purchased individually by the day or as a two-day package. Visit https://douglascountynvrodeo.com/ for more information.