This Veterans Day (11/12) was an especially memorable one for Brantley Gilbert, who spent the morning with Musicians On Call visiting veterans at Nashville’s VA Hospital. The chart-topper took time from his Hell On Wheels Tour to spend the holiday sharing his music and honoring some of the men and women who’ve served.
The Southern rocker said, “I have never experienced anything quite like playing for these veterans. These men and women have sacrificed their lives for our freedom … my freedom to be able to play my music. I have so much respect for them. It was an honor to be able to spend time with them and hopefully brighten their day a little. I know it has certainly changed my life.”
Founded in 1999, Musicians On Call affords musicians like Brantley the opportunity to bring music to patients’ bedsides. To date, these volunteers have played for over 350,000 people in healthcare facilities nationwide. The Nashville division alone has visited nearly 60,000 patients in Middle Tennessee and recently celebrated its fifth Anniversary.
Gilbert has already earned a striking set of “notches” on his industry belt, including #1 singles, impressive sales and multiple award show nominations at the CMA, ACM and CMT Music Awards. Previously he’s been on the road with Toby Keith and Eric Church. His sophomore project, the GOLD-certified HALFWAY TO HEAVEN DELUXE, debuted at #2 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart and has since produced two GOLD-certified, #1 singles – “Country Must Be Country Wide” and “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do.” As a celebrated songwriter, he has also penned four #1 hits – “My Kinda Party,” “Dirt Road Anthem,” “Country Must Be Country Wide,” and “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do.” In 2011, he garnered the prestigious honor of being the only new artist to have a #1 hit at Country radio.
For tour dates and more information on Brantley visit: www.facebook.com/brantleygilbertmusic.com
For more information on Musicians On Call visit: www.musiciansoncall.org
Jackie – Michael I love the personality you caepurtd in this family. Its an amazing warm fun vibe. Out of all your photoshoots this has to be my favorite and one of your best. Amazing photographs.