On Saturday night (October 26) at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium, some of music’s biggest stars along with 82,193 supportive fans gathered for the Concert For Carolina. The benefit to raise money for those affected by Hurricane Helene – organized by country stars and Carolina natives Luke Combs and Eric Church – was delayed for two hours due to severe weather. But the six-hour show was filled with memorable moments while raising an astounding $24.5 million for hurricane relief funds.
Church started the night with a hymn-like cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” while Billy Strings’ acoustic set featured a cover of NC legend Doc Watson’s “Train That Carried My Girl from Town.” Carolina native James Taylor’s poignant anthems “Fire and Rain,” and “Carolina in My Mind” all soared, while a surprise appearance by country legend Randy Travis moved the crowd as his wife Mary gave an emotional speech. Combs played a series of hits before Church joined him for the first-ever live performance of their 2020 No. 1 hit, “Does to Me.” Nicole Kidman even joined in the festivities, getting the crowd to serenade her husband Keith Urban with a rendition of “Happy Birthday” on his 57th birthday. (Billboard)