Luke Combs, Eric Church, Billy Strings & James Taylor To Headline “Concert For Carolina” Benefit Show At Bank Of America Stadium

Stepping up big time for the home state in the wake of Hurricane Helene. This morning, it was announced that Luke Combs, Eric Church, Billy Strings and James Taylor would headline a benefit concert to support Hurricane Helene relief called Concert for Carolina . The massive concert will take place on Saturday, October 26th at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Of course, Luke and Eric are western North Carolina natives, with Luke growing up in Asheville and Eric in nearby Granite Falls. Both attended Appalachian State University, and got their start playing in the same bars around Boone. James Taylor was born in Boston, but grew up in Chapel Hill, as his father was a professor at UNC Chapel Hill. Strings has performed many, many times over his career and the area holds an extra special place in his heart. The event will be hosted by ESPN’s Marty Smith, who lives in North Carolina now, and Barstool Sports’ Caleb Pressley who is also from Asheville. More artists will be announce in the coming days, but man, I could not be prouder of these guys for stepping up for my home state, and theirs, to help the people who have been so devastated in western North Carolina. Of course, there are so many people who are hurting right now Hurricane Helene destroyed many areas across several states, and over 200 people have already been confirmed dead. Hundreds more are still missing as rescue crews continue try to provide aid and reach the hardest-hit areas. The pictures and videos of the devastation are absolutely unthinkable. It’s just heartbreaking to think about those who are suffering so much right now – and even those families still waiting to hear from their loved ones, as some are still without power, cell phones and basic supplies, though it's certainly improving drastically. But through the tragedy, we’ve seen many in the community and across the country step up to provide aid and help those who are suffering. I know I've talked a lot of crap about Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper, but I'll give him credit where it's due in him and his wife offering to let them use the stadium as a venue for something this important. Tickets for the show will go on-sale this Thursday, October 10th at 10AM , and all proceeds from the event, including sponsorships, will be split 50/50 between Combs and Church’s Chief Cares Foundation to administer to organizations of their choosing in support of relief efforts across the Carolinas and the Southeast. Combs’ portion will be distributed between Samaritan’s Purse, Manna Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC (all very legit, and great places to donate if you're wanting to make a personal donation as well). Church’s Chief Cares is focused on helping established charities and organizations that are well managed, organized and can expedite aid directly to the families affected by Hurricane Helene. This is certainly going to be special, and I can tell you from firsthand experience, all of us here in North Carolina could use it right about now: https://www.instagram.com/p/DA01M71JC4W/ Other country artists who have ties to the Appalachian mountains and areas affected include Dolly Parton and Morgan Wallen , who have both donated a lot of money for Hurricane Relief. For those unable to attend the concert but still looking to support, donations can be made now to various organizations listed at www.concertforcarolina.com.