17th Annual “Darius and Friends” Benefit Concert Returns to Nashville

Multi-time Diamond-certified superstar Darius Rucker will return to the iconic Ryman Auditorium on Monday, June 1, for the 17th annual “Darius and Friends” benefit concert, an event that has become a beloved kickoff to CMA Fest week in downtown Nashville. The concert will once again raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, continuing a 

tradition that has already generated more than $5.1 million for the hospital’s mission of treating

and defeating childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

Rucker’s connection to St. Jude began nearly two decades ago after he toured the hospital in

2008, an experience that he has said deeply influenced his long-term commitment to

philanthropy. Since then, the annual benefit concert has grown into one of Nashville’s standout

charitable music events, bringing together surprise guests and some of the biggest names in

country and popular music.

Over the years, “Darius and Friends” has featured appearances from artists including Luke

Bryan, Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Sheryl Crow, Brooks & Dunn, Brothers Osborne, Jason

Aldean, Dan + Shay, Ashley McBryde, Jelly Roll, Vince Gill, Megan Moroney, and Morgan

Wallen, among many others. This year’s lineup will once again include a surprise roster of

special guests.

Tickets for the 2026 concert start at $69, with VIP packages available up to $249 through

AXS.com. Pre-sale access begins Wednesday, April 29 at 10 a.m. CT, with general public tickets 

going on sale Friday, May 1 at 10 a.m. CT. The event is supported by sponsors AMD and The

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