America Salutes You is a musical TV program that tributes those who serve. The 2023 edition of this live concert was filmed in Nashville, Tennessee on December 15, 2023, at the Fisher Center For The Performing Arts on the campus of Belmont University. This event honors and raises awareness and financial support for our valiant veterans and first responders and also supports the US Department of Veteran Affairs Mental Wellness Campaign. The evening’s festivities will air across multiple networks beginning in early 2024.
The lobby of the elegant Fisher Center was decked out for the holidays with a large Christmas tree. There was also a number of signed guitars that were for sale as possible gifts. The night began with Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child singing the National Anthem. Next, Megan Moroney in a festive white outfit accented by a green guitar presented a double shot of relationship advice with the insightful “I’m Not Pretty” along with the clever “Tennessee Orange” where a girl from Georgia meets her potential Mr. Right but finds herself wearing his team’s colors.
Chasing DaVinci are four multi-instrumentalist siblings who shined during their one song spotlight. Dustin Lynch who was serving as a cohost gave a shout out to the sponsors before he and his sizeable band performed the hit “Small Town Boy” followed by the moving “Cowboys and Angels” which was penned for his grandparents.
Co-host Chrissy Metz (“This Is Us”) did justice to “Landslide” (Fleetwood Mac cover) before the War Hippies played the powerful “Make It Out Alive” – a real sentiment by this talented and engaging duo who are both veterans. The rapper Lecrae shared that he comes from a military family and his performance reflected the lessons he learned from listening to their stories. Lecrae concluded his set with the idea that God is not done yet so keep on fighting.
Clint Black presented a compelling “America (Still In Love With You)” paired with “Living In The USA” sung with Lisa Hartman Black and daughter Lily Pearl Black. Charles Esten (“Nashville” TV star) shared uplifting songs of hope. Alana Springsteen’s message and music encouraged people to be true to themselves.
o Dee Messina played her break out single “Heads Carolina, Tails California” (1996) followed by a more serious tune that she penned one night upon hearing of the death of a military woman killed in battle. Lee Greenwood presented his signature song “God Bless The U.S.A.” to end the concert on a final patriotic note.
The fully produced concert of America Salutes You will air in January of 2024 on network affiliates, national cable channels and streaming services across the U. S. and internationally. The show featured an All-Star Band made up of high-profile world class recording and touring musicians led by Music Director Martin Guigui along with the aforementioned stars to honor those who serve.
The night was also dedicated to actor Gary Sinise who was given a Lifetime Achievement Award for his humanitarian work. The Gary Sinise Foundation serves by honoring America’s defenders, first responders, veterans, their families, and those in need with unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen and build communities.
Over the past seven years, America Salutes You has supported over 30 charitable organizations with 100% of public donations going to non-profits. This year’s beneficiaries were the Gary Sinise Foundation, No Greater Sacrifice, The Pursuit of Purpose, The Veterans Tennis Corps and Adaptive Tennis Programs of the JTCC and The Outreach Program. Sponsors included: Ross Glickman Family Foundation, Robert and Susan Wright, The Davis Elkins Foundation, International Protective Services, Virgin Hotels and Farm East Foundation, and more.