The recent Concert for Carolina turned a night of country music into a monumental show of support, raising a staggering $24.5 million for Hurricane Helene relief efforts. With the devastation Hurricane Helene left in North Carolina, the concert, held at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium, became a beacon of hope for recovery efforts across the state.
Even a two-hour weather delay couldn’t keep fans away, with over 82,000 people filling the stadium for a star-studded lineup headlined by country superstars Eric Church and Luke Combs.
Eric Church kicked off the concert with a soulful rendition of “Hallelujah,” setting an emotional tone for the evening. The lineup boasted performances from notable artists like Billy Strings, Keith Urban, Sheryl Crow, James Taylor, and The Avett Brothers. Each artist brought their own flavor to the stage, blending tribute performances and hometown hits that deeply resonated with the crowd.
Luke Combs, who took the stage for a powerful set, was impassioned about the event’s mission. “Every single dollar that is made in the building tonight is going straight to those damn mountains to the people that need it the most,” Combs declared, capturing the shared sentiment of the night.
The concert featured over six hours of music, eventually wrapping up around 1 a.m., as fans and musicians united in the mission of relief and recovery.
Musical tributes were a highlight of the night. Billy Strings performed “Train That Carried My Girl from Town” as a tribute to his North Carolina musical hero, Doc Watson.
Church captivated the crowd with a 10-song medley inspired by the artists who shaped his youth, while James Taylor performed classics like “Fire and Rain” and “Carolina in My Mind,” touching the hearts of everyone in attendance.
The night also brought some special duet performances that made for unforgettable moments, including Eric Church and Sheryl Crow’s heartfelt rendition of Crow’s hit “Picture” and Church and Keith Urban’s performance of their 2013 hit “Raise ‘Em Up.”
Stadium owners David and Nicole Tepper, who also own the Carolina Panthers, contributed generously by donating the venue for the night. Vendors joined in on the cause, pledging all proceeds from concessions, merchandise, and parking, which added to the impressive relief total.
The Concert for Carolina was more than just a night of unforgettable performances—it was a testament to the power of community, music, and generosity coming together to rebuild and support those affected by tragedy.