The 14th annual “Darius and Friends” benefit concert, which was paired with a corresponding golf tournament and silent auction, raised an all-time high of $560,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“We started this to be the first thing at CMA Fest and you guys have now made it a tradition,” Darius Rucker shared with fans at the sold-out Ryman Auditorium as he opened the night. “Thank y’all for coming out. Thank you for supporting St. Jude.”

This year’s event featured more than 30 hit songs and beloved covers by Rucker. The surprise lineup of stars who turned up for the benefit concert included HARDY, Jake Owen, Jelly Roll, Megan Moroney and Vince Gill.

After a live auction and donation round, which added thousands to the fundraising tally, Rucker kicked off the main event with a trio of hits – with his Double Platinum-certified No. 1 “Alright,” top ten hit “Radio” and “Southern State of Mind.”

The annual fundraising event helps ensure families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – so they can focus on helping their child live, Rucker said.

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