Concert for Carolina: Music and Community Unite for Hurricane Helene Relief

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s destruction across western North Carolina, a historic night of music and unity took place at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Luke Combs, a Charlotte native and country music superstar, teamed up with fellow North Carolina legend Eric Church to create the “Concert for Carolina” on October 26, 2024. With over 82,000 fans in attendance and millions raised, this event was about hope and resilience, showing the true power of community and compassion.

An Unbelievable Response: $24.5 Million Raised in One Night

The “Concert for Carolina” raised a staggering $24,513,185 for hurricane relief efforts. This remarkable figure came together thanks to ticket sales, donations from attendees and streaming audiences, and major support from community leaders like David Tepper, owner of the Carolina Panthers. Tepper’s contributions went beyond dollars—he donated the entire stadium for the event, covered all operating costs, and ensured that every cent raised went directly to rebuilding efforts across the Carolinas.

A Star-Studded Lineup with Deep Ties to North Carolina

Bringing together such an impressive lineup in less than a month was no small feat, but Combs and Church used their deep roots and friendships to draw the artists. The stage was graced by:

• Luke Combs and Eric Church
• James Taylor, who shared stories of his connection to North Carolina
• Keith Urban, Sheryl Crow, Billy Strings
• The Avett Brothers, Scotty McCreery, Chase Rice
• Parmalee and Bailey Zimmerman
• Special guests Nicole Kidman and Randy Travis

Eric Church shared how he relentlessly reached out to artists, especially James Taylor, whom he “stalked” for weeks to ensure his participation. Church’s mission was clear: he needed “Carolina in My Mind” played in Charlotte that night, and Taylor made it happen. Even last-minute additions like Wesko, who rearranged his schedule to participate, proved the event’s magnetic pull.

“Everyone came together to make this a special night. It’s incredible to see so many of my friends here, performing to help rebuild the communities we all love.” -Luke Combs

Charlotte’s Community Comes Together

The Charlotte community rallied behind this event in ways big and small:

• 82,000+ fans packed the stadium, with tickets selling out within hours of going live.
• The concert was live-streamed for free, reaching hurricane-affected areas.
• 100 tickets were donated to first responders in Buncombe County, while Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville hosted a simulcast for over 3,200 people.

With help from local and national media, the concert drew nationwide attention, spotlighting the enduring needs of the Carolinas and raising awareness for continued support.

Tepper’s Role: Bringing More than Just the Venue

David Tepper, the owner of the Carolina Panthers of the NFL and Charlotte FC of the MLS, played a pivotal role. Not only did he and his wife, Nicole, donate the use of Bank of America Stadium, but Tepper also covered all operational expenses, from parking fees to staff wages, ensuring that every dollar raised went directly to disaster relief.

“When Luke and Eric came to us, we knew we had to make this happen. Our Carolina family is strong, and we are grateful to play our part in helping it rebuild.” -Nicole Tepper

In a symbolic act, Tepper joined the artists on stage to acknowledge the crowd, making it clear that the evening was about unity, resilience, and hope.

Why Luke Combs Did It: “This Is My Home”

For Luke Combs, the motivation was deeply personal. Growing up in Charlotte and Asheville, Combs had watched the region suffer before, but this time felt different.

“It was heartbreaking to see the mountains I love so much, the places I know so well, torn apart. This concert was about giving back to the people and places that shaped me.” -Luke Combs

With support from Governor Roy Cooper, who praised the event as a “testament to the strength and character of our communities,” the night became a powerful message to all who call the Carolinas home.

What’s Next? Keeping the Momentum Alive

The success of the Concert for Carolina is a blueprint for future relief efforts and community-centered events. There’s now a growing interest in turning this into an annual event, benefiting various causes in the Carolinas. Combs and Church plan to continue supporting relief initiatives, and Tepper has pledged ongoing support through his foundation.

Future Plans May Include:

• Establishing a permanent disaster relief fund for the Carolinas.
• Continued fundraising and awareness campaigns.
• Annual benefit concerts to bring attention and aid to causes impacting local communities.

Exclusive Content:

Concert For Carolina SetList at the bottom of this page!

Spotify Playlist

Concert Video

As the Carolinas rebuild, the unity, music, and generosity showcased at the Concert for Carolina will continue to echo, inspiring future acts of kindness and collaboration across the region.

Donate to help: North Carolina Community Foundation

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