Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie And More Celebs To Honor Kenny Rogers During CMT Benefit Show

Published on April 3, 2020.

On Thursday, April 2, CMT announced that it will air CMT GIANTS Kenny Rogers: A benefit For MusiCares in honor of the late country singer, who passed away last month at the age of 81.

The Kenny Rogers special, which is set to air on April 8, will feature virtual performances and interviews with stars including Dolly Parton, Gavin DeGraw, Jason Isbell, Amanda Shires, Jennifer Nettles, Lady Antebellum, Lionel Richie, Michael McDonald, Randy Houser, Rascal Flatts, and Vince Gill.

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Furthermore, rare archival photos, interviews and performances, from Rogers himself, will also be included.

“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, Executive Producer and Vice President of Production, Music and Events for CMT in a statement. “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.”

Throughout the tribute’s airtime, viewers and fans will have the opportunity to donate to MusiCares’ relief fund related to the ongoing public health and safety situation, which is working to provide funds directly to those within the music industry who have the greatest need for it. 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, Vice President of Health and Human Services MusiCares in a statement. “Our deepest gratitude to the Rogers Family and CMT for designating MusiCares as the beneficiary of this broadcast. Their support will help the thousands of music professionals in need of assistance with rent, utilities, food and other basic necessities. I’m proud to call Nashville home and I’m so fortunate to be a member of this community.”

“Our heartfelt thanks to CMT and the Kenny Rogers estate for supporting MusiCares during these unprecedented times,” added Steve Boom, MusiCares Chair in a statement. “Donations from the broadcast will benefit thousands of music creators and industry professionals in desperate need of support. Kenny was very philanthropic throughout his lifetime, and that legacy continues to lives on.”

CMT GIANTS Kenny Rogers: A Benefit for MusiCares will premiere on Wednesday, April 8 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CMT. Encores of the special will also air April 10 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on MTV Live and April 11 at 12:00 p.m. ET/PT on CMT.