The country music community converged in Las Vegas on Friday night, May 15, for a high-energy celebration of philanthropy and performance. The “Country on the Green” concert, held at TopGolf, served as a milestone event marking the 20th anniversary of ACM Lifting Lives, the charitable arm of the Academy of Country Music.
Headlined by Riley Green, the evening blended a series of fast-paced sets from rising stars and established veterans to raise awareness and funds for the organization. Since its inception in 2006, Lifting Lives has donated more than $12 million to over 150 different causes, providing a critical safety net for those within the music industry and beyond.
The event took place just two nights before the 61st ACM Awards, creating a celebratory atmosphere that highlighted both the commercial success of the genre and its commitment to mutual aid. From emergency grants to specialized music programs, the night underscored the tangible impact of the organization’s two-decade legacy.
A Lifeline for the Country Music Community
ACM Lifting Lives operates as a multifaceted philanthropic partner, focusing heavily on the humans behind the music. The organization is perhaps best known for providing emergency relief to artists, crew members and industry professionals during times of crisis, a role that became paramount during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The importance of this individual-focused support was highlighted by ACM CEO Damon Whiteside. In a previous discussion with Billboard, Whiteside noted that the feedback from recipients often centers on how the assistance helped them stay in Nashville and maintain their career paths during periods of extreme instability. He emphasized that the ability to help people individually in times of need is the core appeal of the organization.
Beyond emergency financial aid, the organization maintains a commitment to inclusive musical education, most notably through its support of a music camp specifically designed for individuals with Williams Syndrome, ensuring that the joy of performance is accessible to all.
Performance Highlights: From Rock Edges to Heartfelt Ballads
The concert structure featured four support acts performing concise, four-song sets, building momentum toward Riley Green’s extended finale. The ACM Lifting Lives highlights of the night were defined by a diverse range of sonic styles and emotional beats.
Avery Anna, the newly announced New Female Artist of the Year, opened the show with a set that challenged traditional country boundaries. Leaning into a rock-heavy sound, Anna surprised the crowd with a cover of Ozzy Osbourne’s “No More Tears.” She balanced the aggression of “Man Downstairs” and the viral success of “Blood Runs Thicker” with the emotional weight of “Indigo,” a ballad performed alongside Sam Barber.
Rodney Atkins brought a sense of nostalgia and fatherly warmth to the stage. Despite some early technical sound issues during his opener, “Take a Backroad,” Atkins quickly recovered. He shared a personal anecdote regarding his son’s Pre-K experience before performing “Watching You,” eventually closing his set with the 2006 hit “If You’re Going Through Hell (Before the Devil Even Knows).”
Lauren Alaina delivered one of the evening’s most poignant moments. Between performances of collaborations like “One Beer” and “What Ifs,” Alaina addressed the crowd regarding the pressures of early fame. Reflecting on her time as a 16-year-old on American Idol, she spoke candidly about the scrutiny regarding her appearance and her current resolve as a mother to protect her daughter from similar judgments. She concluded her set with “Road Less Traveled,” a song centered on self-acceptance.
Randy Houser, recognized for one of the most powerful voices in the genre, provided the penultimate performance. Houser’s set spanned from the upbeat “How Country Feels” to the regret-filled “Back in the Bottle,” eventually closing with the rousing “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight.”
Riley Green’s Closing Tribute
Riley Green, who entered the weekend with four ACM Award nominations, closed the night with a comprehensive 35-minute, nine-song set. The performance was a blend of his biggest hits and intimate moments, including a stripped-back version of “I Wish Grandpas Never Died,” performed solo on guitar.
Green also utilized the evening for collaboration, bringing Avery Anna back to the stage for a duet of “Don’t Mind If I Do,” stepping into the role typically filled by Ella Langley. He balanced the energy of “There Was This Girl” and “Worst Way” with a final, emotional salute to the late Toby Keith.
The finale saw the crowd join in for a medley of Keith’s classics, transitioning from “Should Have Been a Cowboy” into a powerful rendition of “Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue,” bringing the fundraiser to a patriotic and high-energy conclusion.
Event Summary and Impact
| Metric/Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Organization | ACM Lifting Lives (20th Anniversary) |
| Total Donations | $12M+ to 150+ causes |
| Headliner | Riley Green |
| Key Support Acts | Avery Anna, Lauren Alaina, Rodney Atkins, Randy Houser |
| Location | TopGolf, Las Vegas |
This celebration follows a tradition of high-profile fundraisers, such as last year’s gala in Frisco, Texas, which honored the legendary duo Brooks & Dunn with appearances by Keith Urban and Lainey Wilson.
The momentum from the fundraiser leads directly into the 61st ACM Awards. The main ceremony will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will stream live on Amazon Prime Video at 8 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 17.
We invite readers to share their thoughts on the evening’s performances and the mission of ACM Lifting Lives in the comments below.
