LOVE RISING STANDS UP FOR NASHVILLE

Live Nation has partnered with the Tennessee Equality Project, inclusion tennessee, OUTMemphis and the Tennessee Pride Chamber for "Love Rising," a benefit concert taking place on 3/20 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Performers include Sheryl Crow, Maren Morris, Jason Isbell, Hayley Williams, Hozier, Allison Russell, Alabama Shakes' Brittany Howard and Brothers Osborne.

Net proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the aforementioned organizations. The Looking Out Foundation, meanwhile, will support the event by not only accepting donations but doubling contributions received (up to $100k).

The timing of "Love Rising" couldn't be better; since 2015, Tennessee has enacted more anti-LGBTQ+ laws than any other state in the U.S. The latest, Senate Bill 3 and House Bill 9, would ban drag performances from any public property or location where people under 18 could be present.

Said Russell, “As a queer, intersectional artist and mother raising my child in Nashville, it's important to me to support the wonderful Tennessee LGBTQIA+ advocacy organizations working so hard to build bridges, reduce harm and promote equality for all Tennesseans. LGBTQIA+ contributions and creativity are foundational to every genre of modern song and arts performance. I think it speaks volumes that so many in our community are feeling the same call to support, celebrate and uplift!"

Jason Isbell added, “SB3/HB9 and SB1/HB1 are clearly targeted attacks on Tennesseans who haven’t done anything wrong. These bills add up to an attempt to eradicate a valuable part of our community and force good people to live in fear. We can’t in good conscience just stand by and let that happen.”

Billed as "a celebration of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," "Love Rising" is just one way to get involved. Supporters can donate to the Looking Out Foundation here and view current legislative proposals and campaigns on the Tennessee Equality Project website.

Tickets to "Love Rising" go on sale tomorrow (3/8) at 10am CT. Purchase tickets here. While we're on the subject, does anyone have a copy of that photo of Bill Lee in a dress? Asking for a friend.