Brad Paisley Kicks Off ‘Gratitunes’ Movement to Thank Medical Pros

Some of Nashville’s biggest names are teaming up for “Gratitunes” to thank the coronavirus-fighting staff of Vanderbilt University Medical Center — and fans can join the movement, too.

Envisioned as a user-generated music platform which celebrates the “dedication, empathy and unwavering commitment” of Vanderbilt’s medical staff doing battle with COVID-19, the program kicks off today — National Doctors’ Day — with an acoustic submission of “Southern Comfort Zone” by Brad Paisley. The big-hearted country star tenderly croons his anthem of diversity and national unity, noting that the doctors, nurses and others he’s thanking are “doing such great work in these times, trying to keep our communities safe.” And he’s not the only one getting involved.

View this post on Instagram

Today on National Doctors Day, I am sharing my Gratitune “Southern Comfort Zone” with the staff at @vanderbilthealth to show my gratitude and support for the hard work they are doing to keep our community safe. Join me by visiting www.gratitunes.com and submitting your own #Gratitunes to the playlist to be enjoyed by the doctors, nurses, and medical staff on the frontlines of fighting COVID-19. You can also send a message of encouragement by using the hashtags #VUMCHeroes and #Gratitunes in your social posts! Let’s use the power of music to spread joy and send thanks to these incredible men and women.

A post shared by Brad Paisley (@bradpaisley) on Mar 30, 2020 at 7:45am PDT

Each day for the next 30 days, another artist will post their own “Gratitune” to Instagram, including Lauren Alaina, Lindsay Ell, Sara Evans, Amy Grant, Dustin Lynch, Jewel, Walker Hayes, hit songwriter Shane McAnally (“Body Like a Backroad”) and many others. Plus, fans can contribute songs as well, creating a dynamic playlist to be enjoyed by Vanderbilt’s 25,000 medical professionals as they work to save lives — hopefully offering a little stress relief and encouragement along the way.

“We treasure the support we receive from our music industry colleagues and all of Nashville’s outstanding artists,” says Jeff Balser, MD, PhD, President and CEO of VUMC and Dean of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. “They are incredibly generous with their time and resources, supporting our mission to provide world-class care to all those we serve. This amazing support through Gratitunes is so terrific, so Nashville, and lifts our spirits!”

Visit the Gratitunes website for more information on how to contribute. Along with song submissions, donations will also be accepted to buy medical supplies, COVID-19 protection materials and child-care services for Vanderbilt staff as they fight the pandemic.