Cody Alan is as beloved by the Nashville stars he covers, as he is by country music fans. As TV host of CMT’s flagship music show, his face is seen weekly on Hot 20 Countdown. On radio, he’s been heard by millions, making him “Country’s Renaissance Man” (Radio Ink), and the ultimate insider. His popular memoir Hear’s The Thing was released in 2021, which features many of Cody’s on air adventures, his coming out story, and the lessons learned by truly listening.
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Cody leapt at the first opportunity to be heard on the airwaves at age fifteen. With a single-minded determination to succeed, he built his reputation as a highly regarded radio host over the next two decades. He has won multiple awards including being named 2021 National On-Air Personality of the Year by the Country Music Association, as well as the Academy of Country Music’s Personality of the Year twice. Additionally, he was a nine-time recipient of the Country Music Director of the Year award during his tenure in Dallas, Texas.
Cody has opened up beyond the microphone, allowing many country fans to see themselves in his journey. At the start of 2017, Cody made national headlines by boldly coming out as gay. He partners with GLAAD to host the annual Concert for Love and Acceptance. Most recently, Cody received the 2022 Visibility Award from the Human Rights Campaign for his efforts leading in the LGBTQ+ community.
Cody’s support for the military has been a key aspect of his efforts to give back. Over the years, he’s traveled around the globe to support the men and women of the armed forces at US military bases in Bahrain, Alaska, Arizona, Washington, South Korea, Florida, and more. With the inclusion of the American Forces Network, Cody’s shows have been heard on over 1000 bases and naval carriers in 160 countries.
Keith Urban—the man himself—said Cody “makes Ryan Seacrest look like a slacker.” Cody is a father of two, and when he’s not on the air, enjoys spending time with his partner and family. He was also named one of “Nashville’s Most Beautiful People” by Nashville Lifestyles magazine.