CMT is set to spotlight country and pop music legend Kenny Rogers, who died on March 20, 2020, at the age of 81 with their ‘CMT Giant’s Kenny Rogers: A Benefit For MusiCares’ television special.
The televised tribute will feature performances and interviews submitted from Kenny’s closest friends and collaborators, including Dolly Parton, Gavin DeGraw, Jason Isbell & Amanda Shires, Jennifer Nettles, Lady Antebellum, Lionel Richie, Michael McDonald, Randy Houser, Rascal Flatts, Vince Gill, and others.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, artists and friends are honoring the late legend by inviting fans into their homes. Self-filmed intimate performances and testimonials will be paired with archived images, video performances, and even interviews from Kenny paying homage to this global superstar.
“Kenny Rogers transcended genres and generations with his musical versatility, legendary collaborations and timeless appeal, and we’re honored to pay tribute to his legacy,” said Margaret Comeaux, EVP and vice president of production, music & events, CMT. “Particularly in these turbulent times, we’ll stop and take a moment to allow the memory of our dear friend Kenny to bring us together and inspire us to lend support to those in the music community who are most in need.”
During the special, fans will have the opportunity to honor Rogers’ life and donate directly to MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund, established to provide critical funds directly to the thousands of music creators and industry professionals who have the greatest need stemming from the coronavirus pandemic. Half of all funds raised will go directly to the Nashville country community.
“The resilience and strength of the country music community is heartwarming,” said Debbie Carroll, VP health and human services MusiCares. “Our deepest gratitude to the Rogers Family and CMT for designating MusiCares as the beneficiary of this broadcast. Their support will help thousands of music professionals in need of assistance with rent, utilities, food, and other necessities. I’m proud to call Nashville home, and I’m so fortunate to be a member of this community.”
Viewers can support CMT’s efforts by visiting musicares.org/kennyrogers and texting KENNYCARES to 41444 during the broadcast to contribute. Members of the music industry and in need of assistance, visit musicares.org.
Watch ‘CMT Giants Kenny Rogers: A Benefit For MusiCares’ on Wednesday, April 8 at 8 PM ET/PT on CMT and will encore on MTV Live at 8:00 PM ET/PT on April 10 and again on CMT at 12:00 PM ET/PT on April 11.
Photo Credit: Getty Images.