wedge pizza and pub

Benefiting Operation Stand Down Tennessee

In its fifth triumphant year, the Music City Cares Veterans Day benefit concert pulled out all the stops, delivering yet another unforgettable night of electrifying performances! Held at the bustling Wedge Pizza and Pub on the South Side of Nashville, TN, this event has cemented itself as a highly anticipated local tradition. Despite the dark and rainy Nashville evening, the energy inside Wedge Pizza was palpable, with fans braving the weather to celebrate the art and spirit of rock, country, and Americana—all in support of a meaningful cause.

The show opened with a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem by none other than Nashville’s own Jenny Tolman. Tolman’s voice soared, and the crowd fell silent, captivated by the depth and pride she poured into each note. It was the perfect start to an evening dedicated to honoring those who have served our country, and the audience knew they were in for an unforgettable experience.

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Top Notch 615 DJ: Keeping the Vibe Alive Between Sets

Adding to the night’s infectious energy was Top Notch 615 DJ, who kept the room buzzing with his skillful mixes and historic Nashville vibe between each set. His presence brought a unique rhythm to the event, seamlessly blending classic Nashville sounds with contemporary beats that had the crowd grooving even between the main performances. With a personality as vibrant as his playlists, Top Notch 615 DJ connected with the audience effortlessly, infusing the room with his unmistakable charm and character. His knowledge of Nashville’s musical heritage shone through in every track, creating an atmosphere that felt like a journey through the city’s rich history. Top Notch 615’s contribution didn’t just keep the energy high—it enriched the entire experience, ensuring there wasn’t a single dull moment throughout the night.

Josh Johnson: Bringing Soul and Solos to the Stage

First up to kick off the lineup was Josh Johnson, a familiar face in the Nashville music scene known for his raw electric guitar talent and heartfelt songwriting. Donning a classic jean jacket and a trucker hat, Josh looked every bit the part of a modern-day troubadour. He poured his heart into every strum and every lyric, connecting deeply with the audience. His music spoke to personal stories, gritty yet hopeful, and that authenticity resonated with the crowd. The venue buzzed with energy as his fingers danced across the guitar strings, filling the room with searing riffs and unforgettable melodies. By the end of his set, it was clear Josh had won over the audience, many of whom were already die-hard fans.

Tyler Kohrs: Heartfelt Vocals and Spiritual Connection

Following Josh’s high-energy performance, Tyler Kohrs took the stage, shifting the mood with a soulful, acoustic set. Kohrs’s voice carried an authenticity and passion that instantly captivated the crowd. With guitar as his only accompaniment, Tyler’s raw vocal strength was a testament to his artistry. His music was uplifting and infused with themes of faith and personal strength, offering the crowd moments of introspection and encouragement. Tyler’s love for music and spirituality radiated through every song, each one delivered with a level of honesty that felt like a private conversation between him and every listener in the room. The crowd was enchanted by his voice, and it was clear that Kohrs’s performance left a lasting impact.

The Rudy Gonzalez Band: A Southwestern Journey

Next on stage was the Rudy Gonzalez Band, bringing a rich blend of Americana with a Southwestern twist that was refreshingly unique for Nashville. As soon as Rudy and his band hit their stride, you could feel echoes of classic rock legends like Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers. Rudy’s mastery on the harmonica paired with his bandmates’ tight, rhythmic instrumentals had the audience tapping their feet and nodding along. Their music transported listeners to a different place and time, weaving in stories of open roads, desert landscapes, and nostalgic Americana. With each song, the band brought a laid-back vibe that contrasted beautifully with the intensity of the earlier acts, proving themselves as a must-see group for fans of gritty, heartland music.

Due West: Harmonies That Soared

Taking the stage next was Due West, a trio that delivered a standout performance defined by their breathtaking harmonies and tight musicianship. Due West took the audience on an emotional journey, showing off not only their skills as musicians but as storytellers. Their harmonies were flawless, each voice blending seamlessly to create a sound that was powerful yet soft, complex yet familiar. The trio brought an incredible energy to the venue, and their chemistry was palpable, lifting the audience to their feet. Paying tribute to Toby Keith for his support of veterans himself, their cover of his work was a sight to be seen and heard. Whether performing upbeat tunes or heartfelt ballads, Due West captured the spirit of the evening, and it was clear that their talent for harmonizing was a rare and beautiful gift.

Flat River Band: A Steel Guitar Spotlight

Keeping the energy high, the Flat River Band followed Due West with their own mix of stirring harmonies and impressive musicianship. From the moment they began, it was clear that the Flat River Band was here to keep the night rolling with unbridled passion. They introduced the crowd to a darker, edgier sound, characterized by the haunting tones of a steel guitar expertly played from a shadowed corner of the stage. This element added a haunting beauty to their performance, layering the songs with textures that only a steel guitar can provide. The crowd was entranced, swaying along to every song and soaking in the unique soundscapes the band created. Flat River Band’s performance was a testament to the diversity of talent present at the event, showing just how versatile and innovative Nashville’s music scene can be.

Even More Music

Honestly, I had to run at this point, but there were more great musicians to be heard. For credit, email jason@nashvillerocks.com.

A Night Dedicated to a Worthy Cause

Each year, the Music City Cares Veterans Benefit Show is about more than just music—it’s about giving back to veterans who have served our country and now face new challenges upon returning home. Proceeds from the event support Operation Stand Down Tennessee, an organization based in Nashville that provides crucial services to veterans transitioning to civilian life. Operation Stand Down assists veterans with job training, housing support, counseling, and other essential resources, ensuring they have the support they need to succeed. As a veteran myself, I can tell you firsthand the importance of such organizations. The transition to civilian life is not always easy, and knowing that there are people and groups committed to helping veterans rebuild their lives makes a world of difference.

The Man Behind the Magic: Eric Byford and EBX Productions

The mastermind behind the Music City Cares Veterans Benefit Show is Eric Byford, a Nashville-based producer and founder of EBX Productions. Eric’s vision for this event was inspired by his late grandfather, a veteran affectionately known as “Grand Buddy.” Through the Music City Cares Veterans Benefit Show, Eric has created a powerful platform to honor his grandfather’s memory and give back to the veteran community that was so close to him. Over the years, Eric’s commitment to this event has attracted top talent from across the Nashville area, each artist eager to lend their talents to a worthy cause. EBX Productions has gone above and beyond to ensure the benefit show grows each year, building a community around music, philanthropy, and a deep appreciation for veterans.

The Show’s Future

As the night came to a close, it was evident that this year’s show had achieved its mission: to entertain, inspire, and support Nashville’s veteran community. The Music City Cares Veterans Benefit Show has become a beloved Nashville tradition, and each year it attracts a growing number of fans and supporters. For anyone who missed this year’s event, there’s always next year to look forward to. With Eric Byford and EBX Productions at the helm, it’s safe to say that the Music City Cares Veterans Benefit Show will only continue to grow, bringing even more incredible artists and fans together for a night of unforgettable music and heartfelt purpose.

If you’re interested in supporting this cause, consider donating to Operation Stand Down Tennessee. Contributions go a long way toward helping veterans navigate the complexities of civilian life, providing essential resources to those who have given so much for our country.

Mark your calendars, Nashville! As Veterans Day rolls around again next year, there’s one place you’ll want to be: the Music City Cares Veterans Benefit Show, where the music is great, the cause is even greater, and the spirit of Nashville shines bright.

– Jason R. Coleman