Solidarity and support for queer and trans Tennesseans was the theme this past March 20th as musicians such as Hozier, Sheryl Crow, Hayley Williams, Julien Baker and many others artists and drag queens performed at Nashville’s Love Rising benefit concert at Bridgestone Arena. 

For those unaware, on Thursday, March 2nd, Tennessee governor Bill Lee signed a bill that restricted drag performances, as well as another bill that banned minors from being able to receive gender-affirming healthcare. This bill has been received with protest from the LGBTQ+ community and supporters alike as these changes in legislature significantly hinder their quality of life.

The Benefit show was created to raise money for pro-LGBTQ+ organizations, as well as to raise awareness of these legislative changes that are harmful for the LGBTQ+ community. 

Drag Race cast members joined the stage to raise awareness for multiple organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community. The urgency to vote and stay involved in creating a progressive and welcoming world was their message and the crowd received it with open ears and minds. Mid-show, Mayor John Cooper was welcomed to the stage from artists and the crowd alike as he spoke on keeping Nashville a welcoming city and community.

Artists tailored their sets to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community. Some examples were Sheryl Crow's rendition of "Everyday is a Winding Road”, Hozier’s “Take Me to Church”, and Hayley Williams’ cover of Deana Carter’s “Did I Shave My Legs For This’. It was a truly special experience to see artists unite in peaceful protest to these drastic changes in the Tennessee state legislature.