 Photo: NPR Every time there is a devastating natural disaster, it brings out the best in humanity. The community rallies together and offers their homes for those that lost theirs, food for those that don’t have access to any, and money for rebuilding efforts. The tornadoes that swept through Middle Tennessee hitting Mt. Juliet, Germantown, East Nashville, and more surrounding areas, proved how resilient the Nashville community is. Having suffered a catastrophic flood causing extensive damage in 2010, Music City knows how to rebuild from the ground up. This tragedy resonated deeply with those everywhere. It is safe to say that the majority of country music fans have visited Nashville on a bachelorette trip, birthday excursion, or to visit the dozens of tourist attractions that the city boasts. To see the before and after pictures of places that you might have once visited is shocking.
There are 77 still missing and the death toll has reached 24. It is heartbreaking to think of the lives lost in this storm that had winds reaching 165 mph. Less than 48 hours later, and there are dozens of relief efforts, campaigns and GoFundMe’s that have been created. Nashville will come back stronger than ever. Dozens of Nashville artists took to Instagram and Twitter to update concerned fans on their safety. They used their platform to let fans know ways that they can contribute to the rebuilding efforts for those that lost everything. Jana Kramer shared with followers the devastation in her neighborhood on her Instagram stories. Hardy took a second to update fans on his stories to say he was helping, “a friend of friend” in East Nashville move what was left out of his house adding that, “I can honestly say it’s bad. I didn’t even realize how bad, houses are completely destroyed… if you feel like you’ve got an extra few bucks to donate these people need it.” Many artists such as Travis Denning and Jon Langston have said that all merchandise profits of their next show will be donated to relief efforts. Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row will be hosting a Tornado Relief concert on March 9th at 7pm. Mitchell Tenpenny will be performing alongside Jessie James Decker, Adam Doleac, Devin Dawson, Hardy, and more. 100% of ticket sales and bar tabs will be donated. Purchase tickets at dierkswhiskey.row.com/nashvillestrong. Some more responses from Country artists across social media… @MarenMorris “The tornado must have missed our block by an inch because we are alright but I am so depleted looking at the damage that has happened to our beautiful city. There are so many people in the streets helping already, though. Thinking of those who lost their loved ones + homes.” @JonTLangston “I got a show in Memphis this Friday. Every single penny made on Merch I’ll be donating to the Nashville Tornado Relief. Every little bit helps. See y’all at the Bluff and let’s come together, rebuild and lift up the great state of Tennessee. @TrishaYearwood “Seeing the responses ‘I’m here for you’ ‘Do you need a place to stay?’... this community comes together to take care of its own. So proud to be part of the family we call Nashville. All of our love and strength to those who have lost so much.” @DollyParton “Praying for all those affected by the devastating storms in Tennessee and my heart is especially with the families who lost loved ones. We are all with you.” @TheTimMcGraw “The iconic ‘I believe in Nashville’ murals started popping up after the big flood ten years ago. It’s stood as a symbol of resilience and togetherness. We are heartbroken for our community after last night's tragic tornado, but know that together we will rise up and rebuild again!” @CarrieUnderwood “Sending my love to Nashville! I am praying for all of those affected by the terrible storm.” @GarthBrooks “I am not a native son of Nashville, but they have taken me in and treated me like a native son. For those that have passed… never forget, always honor. Nashville will do that and do it well.” @BradPaisley “For those I’m hearing from today wondering how to help quickly, The Music City Inc foundation was started after the floods to get relief to people locally. It can immediately help those most severely impacted by things like these Nashville tornadoes.” @CarlyPearce “I’m truly at a loss for words as to the devastation to our city today, but I randomly came across this photo that stopped me in my tracks. Through it all, Jesus is here. I pray for everyone affected & the homes and lives lost. Sending all my love #nashvillestrong.” @JimmieAllen “Praying for everyone in Nashville affected by the tornado. Families have lost loved ones and homes and businesses. Let’s make sure we are doing what we can to help.” @SaraEvansMusic “Sending my love to the Nashville community and everyone affected by the tornado last night. Heartbreaking to see so much devastation across our beautiful city. Visit hon.org and cfmt.org to find out how you can help #nashvillestrong.” @littlebigtown “Our hearts are broken for our city and state. Sending love and prayers to those hurting today.” @ChrisYoungMusic “My heart goes out to everyone who lost friends or family last night. It’s devastating to see photos this morning of the city I call home.” How to help:
By Haley Moloney
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