How to Hire CROSS CANADIAN RAGWEED For Your Event!
Southern Grit and Glory
Members:
Cody Canada, Grady Cross, Randy Ragsdale, Jeremy Plato
Formed in: Oklahoma
Based in: Oklahoma
Hire: Cross Country Ragweed
Cross Canadian Ragweed is an American rock and alternative country band formed in Yukon, Oklahoma. Blending Southern rock, country, and grunge influences, they became one of the most prominent acts in the Red Dirt music scene during the late 1990s and 2000s. Known for their energetic live shows and raw, heartfelt songwriting, the band cultivated a passionate grassroots following across Texas and the Southern U.S.
Formation and Band Name
Cross Canadian Ragweed was formed in 1994 by four friends from Yukon, Oklahoma: Cody Canada (lead vocals, lead guitar), Grady Cross (rhythm guitar), Randy Ragsdale (drums), Jeremy Plato (bass guitar)
The band’s name is a mash-up of the members’ last names: Cross (Grady), Canadian (Cody Canada), and Ragweed (a play on Ragsdale). The name reflected their democratic and close-knit nature.
Hire Cross Canadian Ragweed for your festival or concert plans! (t,s)
Early Days and DIY Touring
The band began by playing in bars, honky-tonks, and small clubs throughout Oklahoma and Texas. Their DIY approach to touring helped them build a loyal following even before they had a major label deal. They were central to the Red Dirt music movement, which combined elements of country, Southern rock, and outlaw country with a fiercely independent attitude.
Their self-released debut album, Carney Man (1998), was raw and gritty, capturing their live energy and signaling what was to come.
Breakthrough Success: ‘Highway 377‘ and Universal South Deal
In 2001, Cross Canadian Ragweed independently released Highway 377, a live-sounding record that became a regional hit. It caught the attention of Universal South Records, who signed them and released their major-label debut, Cross Canadian Ragweed (Purple Album), in 2002.
The Purple Album was named in memory of Randy Ragsdale’s sister, who died in a car accident. With songs like “17,” “Constantly,” and “Anywhere But Here,” it became a defining record in the Red Dirt genre.
Musical Style and Influence
Cross Canadian Ragweed’s music blends: southern rock riffs, country storytelling, grunge-inspired guitar tones, and honest, autobiographical lyrics.
They have been frequently compared to acts like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Steve Earle, and Nirvana, reflecting their diverse influences. Cody Canada’s vocals and songwriting stand out for their emotional intensity and often reflective nature.
Albums and Key Releases
- Carney Man (1998) – Independent debut
- Highway 377 (2001) – Fan favorite and a Red Dirt classic
- Cross Canadian Ragweed (Purple Album) (2002) – Breakout album with critical acclaim
- Soul Gravy (2004) – Featured hits like “Sick and Tired” with Lee Ann Womack
- Garage (2005) – A heavier, more rock-oriented album
- Mission California (2007) – Showed growth and more mature themes
- Happiness and All the Other Things (2009) – studio album
They also released live albums and DVDs, including Back to Tulsa: Live and Loud at Cain’s Ballroom (2006).
Challenges and Breakup
Despite their success, the band’s relentless touring took a toll. In 2010, Cross Canadian Ragweed announced an indefinite hiatus, largely due to drummer Randy Ragsdale’s desire to be with his autistic child and be more present for his family.
Rather than replace a founding member, the group chose to disband with integrity, staying true to their bond and musical brotherhood.
Life After Ragweed
After the breakup, Cody Canada formed a new band, The Departed, continuing to tour and release music in the Red Dirt vein. Jeremy Plato joined The Departed for a time. Grady Cross and Randy Ragsdale stepped back from touring but remained connected to the Oklahoma music community.
Legacy
Cross Canadian Ragweed’s influence on Red Dirt and Texas Country music is immeasurable. They helped define a movement and inspired a new generation of artists, including Wade Bowen, Stoney LaRue, Reckless Kelly, and Jason Boland & The Stragglers.
Their authenticity, commitment to fans, and musical integrity continue to be celebrated by Red Dirt loyalists and musicians alike.
Fun Facts
- The “Purple” in the Purple Album refers to the color of the casket at Ragsdale’s sister’s funeral.
- They were one of the first Red Dirt bands to cross into mainstream country success without abandoning their roots.
- Cody Canada often plays Ragweed songs in his current shows, keeping the spirit of the band alive.
Reunion
In September 2024, the band announced their reunion, announcing a show alongside Jason Boland & The Stragglers, Turnpike Troubadours, Stoney LaRue, and The Great Divide. The show was originally scheduled to take place on April 12, 2025, at Boone Pickens Stadium. Due to pre-sale ticket demand a second show was added for April 11, 2025. After the two shows sold out on Monday, October 7, 2024, two more shows were added later that day for the Thursday before and the Sunday after. After tickets sold out on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, a grand total of 180,764 tickets were reported sold for the weekend of April 10–13, 2025.
The band played a surprise set at Mile 0 Music Fest in Key West, Florida in January 2025. This was the band’s first live performance in more than 15 years.
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