AceShowbiz - On Friday, May 15, the country music world united in Las Vegas to celebrate the 20th anniversary of ACM Lifting Lives, the philanthropic branch of the Academy of Country Music. The event, titled Country on the Green, took place at TopGolf and was headlined by Riley Green, who is currently nominated for four ACM Awards.

Since its establishment in 2006, Lifting Lives has contributed more than $12 million to over 150 charitable causes, focusing on supporting those involved in country music. The organization offers emergency relief, which proved crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping artists and industry professionals remain in Nashville and continue their careers. ACM CEO Damon Whiteside emphasized the personal impact of the program earlier this year, noting how it provides timely aid to individuals in need.

The concert featured performances by a lineup of notable artists, including the newly crowned New Female Artist of the Year Avery Anna, Lauren Alaina, Rodney Atkins, and Randy Houser. These acts spanned over three decades of country hits, each delivering fast-paced, four-song sets. Riley Green closed the evening with a nine-song performance, thrilling the audience with his popular tracks just two days before the 61st ACM Awards ceremony.

Avery Anna opened the night with a compelling set that leaned heavily into rock influences. Her performance included a cover of Ozzy Osbourne's "No More Tears," followed by the intense "Man Downstairs," which addresses the story of an abuser and his consequences. She also performed "Indigo," a heartfelt ballad featuring Sam Barber, and concluded with the viral hit "Blood Runs Thicker," a personal song about her father. Despite the brief set, she demonstrated a depth that goes beyond typical radio fare.

The event also highlighted Lifting Lives' commitment to music education by supporting a camp for individuals with Williams Syndrome. Last year’s fundraiser, held in Frisco, Texas, aligned with the ACM Awards’ 60th anniversary and honored the legendary duo Brooks & Dunn. That gala featured tributes from artists such as Lainey Wilson, Keith Urban, and Cody Johnson.

The upcoming 61st ACM Awards will be broadcast live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, May 17, streamed on Amazon Prime Video starting at 8 p.m. ET. This benefit concert served as a powerful reminder of the country music community’s ongoing dedication to helping its members through the mission of Lifting Lives.