Homegrown Headliner: Ian Munsick Becomes First Wyoming Native to Headline CFD

With his upcoming show alongside Travis Tritt on Friday, July 18, 2025, Sheridan native Ian Munsick will become the first Wyoming-born artist to headline Cheyenne Frontier Days. For fans across the state, it’s a cultural milestone decades in the making, and for Munsick himself, it's a dream realized. “This will be the highlight of my touring career,” he shared, “and quite possibly my musical career as a whole… truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

The Cowboy Capital: A Brief History of Cheyenne Frontier Days

Since its founding in 1897, Cheyenne Frontier Days has grown into the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration. It’s a week-and-a-half-long festival of broncs, bulls, parades, and pancake breakfasts, but music has long held a place of honor. Over the years, the CFD stage has welcomed a wide variety of artists, from George Strait to Post Malone.

But for all the talent that’s passed through Cheyenne, a Wyoming native has never taken the headlining spotlight. That changes this year.

From Sheridan to the Spotlight

Ian Munsick grew up in Sheridan, Wyoming, where music and ranch life went hand in hand. He performed with his family band, The Munsick Boys, and spent his early years balancing chores on the ranch with evenings full of fiddles, harmonies, and cowboy ballads. That blend of hard work and storytelling helped shape his musical style early on.

After moving to Nashville, Munsick signed with Warner Music Nashville and began releasing music that blended traditional Western themes with modern country sounds. His 2017 self-titled EP led to the release of Coyote Cry in 2021, featuring the gold-certified single “Long Haul.” His follow-up album, White Buffalo (2023), included collaborations with artists like Cody Johnson and Vince Gill, and inspired a documentary exploring life in the modern West. Along the way, he’s built a dedicated fanbase, toured nationally, and stayed true to the stories and sound of the place he calls home.

A Fan-Led Moment

Ian Munsick’s upcoming headlining slot at CFD gained momentum after a group of fans started a Facebook page petitioning for him to take the stage. The grassroots effort came on the heels of his performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and struck a chord with Wyoming music lovers. The campaign soon caught the attention of Cowboy State Daily, which published a story amplifying the fans’ pleas and celebrating Munsick’s Wyoming roots.

Shortly after, the official announcement was made: Munsick would headline Cheyenne Frontier Days in July 2025. For fans across the state, it felt like a well-earned and long-awaited homecoming.

Looking Ahead

Munsick is set to release his third studio album, Eagle Feather, in 2025. Like his previous work, it continues to draw on the landscapes, stories, and symbolism of the American West. The album includes collaborations with artists like Lainey Wilson and Cleto Cordero and is expected to build on the momentum he’s gained over the last few years.

As for his upcoming performance at Cheyenne Frontier Days, it’s a full-circle moment—not just for Munsick, but for the state he makes proud. Whether you’re celebrating Wyoming’s heritage or simply enjoying great music, July 18 will be a night to remember.