Allison Russell, Sheryl Crow, Hozier Come Together for Love Rising Benefit Concert

As Tennessee lawmakers look to put a target on the backs of their LGBTQ+ citizens, many big-name musicians are working to fight back.

Maren Morris, Brothers Osborne, Jason Isbell and Allison Russell have organized a benefit concert amidst growing anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ laws in the state. The hope is that the music will galvanize support for those marginalized people of the state (and beyond) to bring support to the cause for equality.

The event, dubbed “Love Rising,” will take place at Bridgestone Arena on March 20 and serve as a benefit concert. Proceeds will be donated to Tennessee Equality Project, inclusion tennessee, OUTMemphis and The Tennessee Pride Chamber.

“As a queer, intersectional artist and mother, raising my child in Nashville, it’s important to me to support these wonderful Tennessee LGBTQIA+ advocacy organizations, working so hard to build bridges, reduce harm and promote equality for all Tennesseans,” Russell said in a press statement. “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.”

Added Morris on social media: “Let’s show these politicians that they do not speak for all of Tennessee. Love will prevail.”

Hayley Williams, Yola, Amanda Shires, Brittany Howard, Hozier, Sheryl Crow, Joy Oladokun, Mya Byrne, and more are also on the bill for the show. Tickets are on sale now via bridgestonearena.com.

The event is described as a “celebration of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Brandi Carlile’s non-profit Looking Out Foundation has also pledged to match donations up to $100,000.

The show comes in the wake of the state’s Governor Bill Lee signing two pieces of legislation that critics claim to target the Tennessee queer community. Lee says the measures are aimed at protecting children. Lee signed a total ban on gender-affirming healthcare treatments for transgender people. The second law could restrict local public drag performances.

Said Isbell in a press statement, “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.” 

Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images