Great American Country Television will air on May 16 the first national telethon and concert event to raise money for the victims of the recent flooding disaster in middle Tennessee.
The Scripps Networks-owned GAC is partnering with Gaylord Entertainment and the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau to develop the two-hour Music City Keep on Playin' - A Benefit for Flood Relief event, which will feature performances from such musical artists as Lady Antebellum, Dierks Bentley and Rodney Atkins, said the network. Other celebrities will host and join other volunteers to man phone banks to collect call-in donations.
All monies raised will go to Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, an organization distributing donations to those in need after the devastating flooding that paralyzed the region last week. The flood damage in Nashville and 5 surrounding counties is expected to exceed $1 billion, according to network officials.
"While it's important that our viewers know our city has come together and survived this unfortunate event, thousands of Nashville and middle Tennessee residents are in serious need and some of this city's most talented residents are generously stepping in to help," said GAC President Ed Hardy in a statement. "In addition to artists, many production people are donating their time and talent to the event."
Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau President Butch Spyridon added, "We are proud to partner with GAC and Gaylord Entertainment to raise money for Nashville's flood victims. This concert effort is a great example of how the partnership between Nashville's hospitality and music industries benefits the entire city."
