Martina McBride, Kelly Clarkson Unite for Musicians on Call Tour
A trio of powerhouse vocalists are lending their support to Musicians on Call, the non-profit organization that brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities across the country. When the four-city Rock the Room Tour kicks off October 21st in Nashville, the benefit will feature performances by Martina McBride and Kelly Clarkson, along with a special appearance by Reba and other surprise guests. [Get tickets here.]
Warner Music Nashville’s Creative Director Shane Tarleton is set to receive the “Golden Ukulele” award at the Music City show, acknowledging his leadership in music and eight years of volunteer work with the charity. McBride tells Rolling Stone Country she’s a fan of both the cause and the honoree. “Musicians on Call is truly an inspiring and wonderful organization,” the country superstar tells Rolling Stone Country. “Shane is a dear friend, and I’m honored he asked me to be there on this special night when we will celebrate his beautiful heart and generous spirit.”
“I’ve been very fortunate throughout my career to witness first-hand the healing power of music,” adds Reba. “I am so honored to support Musicians on Call and most especially to recognize my good friend Shane Tarleton for all that he has done and continues to do to improve the lives of patients and families.”
Last year, Clarkson was honored at the group’s star-studded 15th anniversary gala in New York.
After its inaugural date in Nashville next month, the Rock the Room Tour will travel to New York, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., with performers in each location to be announced at a future date. Since Musicians on Call was founded in 1999 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, volunteer artists have performed for nearly half a million patients across the United States, in facilities that range from children’s hospitals, to VA centers and hospices. MOC supporters have included Bruce Springsteen, Justin Timberlake, Lady Antebellum, Pharrell and Darius Rucker.