Hunter Hayes Kicks Off CMA Week with Free Concert, Salute to Military
Thousands of fans turned out to help Hunter Hayes kick off CMA Awards week with a surprise-packed free street party in downtown Nashville that included a special salute to a special soldier.
“We’ve been fortunate to play a few shows specifically for our servicemen and women, exclusively for them, and it’s a great honor,” Hayes said before playing “Love Too Much” from his current album, Storyline. “Every night in the show we dedicate this song to all of our men and women serving all over the world … as well as their families. They miss so many beautiful moments with their families so they can go serve, so we can get together and do things like this.”
Arnold, of Norfolk, Va., has been deployed overseas six times during his military career, including stints in Iraq and Afghanistan. The USO honored him for his service and sacrifice and the strength he showed missing “moments” with his wife and two daughters during his deployment.
A series of guests joined Hayes on stage during the hit-filled show, including Kellie Pickler, Kristian Bush of Sugarland, Charlie Worsham and Tattoo (Your Name) Tour mates Dan + Shay and The Railers. Fans filled the courtyard of the Bridgestone Arena for the outdoor show and spilled into the streets, often singing along with Hayes.
Hayes also appeared on ABC’s “Countdown to the CMA Awards: 15 Songs That Changed Country Music with Robin Roberts” on his eventful Monday night. He paid tribute to Johnny Cash, performing the iconic “Folsom Prison Blues,” and his busy week continues Wednesday, Nov. 5 when Hayes performs on “The 48th Annual CMA Awards.”
Pictured above – (L-R) John McFee, Crystal Arnold, Aolani Arnold, Hunter Hayes, Kaelynn Arnold, Sergeant First Class Tyler Arnold, Kellie Pickler, and CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern; Photo Credit: Rick Diamond/Getty Images
