The CMA Fest weekend in Nashville was heralded by a vibrant celebration hosted by the talent management company Trend, in conjunction with The HARDY Fund. The event, titled “Off The Record with HARDY & Friends,” took place at Marathon Music Works, drawing an eclectic mix of country music stars, influencers, and athletes to kick off the festivities.
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Country musician HARDY took on the role of host for the evening, sharing the stage with fellow artist Lauren Alaina. Their performance opened on a high note as the duo sang their popular duet “ONE BEER” to a receptive audience. However, this was merely the beginning of an exciting and dynamic night filled with entertainment and surprise appearances.
Several well-known names in modern country music graced the stage, including Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, Tucker Wetmore, ERNEST, Stephen Wilson Jr, and Karen Fairchild. The evening saw an intimate yet thrilling atmosphere, reminiscent of a classic southern dive bar — a theme that resonated well in the heart of Nashville.
Adding to the excitement, renowned country singer Miranda Lambert made a special guest appearance, performing “Better Man” alongside Stephen Wilson Jr., Ella Langley, and Karen Fairchild. The surprise collaborations delighted attendees and highlighted the strong sense of community within Nashville’s music scene.
Guests were immersed in a nostalgic dive bar experience, complete with themed games, tattoo and piercing stations, and unique photo opportunities. Saloon-style portrait sessions captured by renowned photographer Katie Kauss provided attendees with memorable keepsakes from the evening. The event was sponsored by Free People, further enhancing its celebratory flair.
A significant aspect of the night was its commitment to philanthropy. Proceeds from both live and silent auctions went to The HARDY Fund, an initiative founded by HARDY and his wife, Caleigh Hardy. This fund aims to support community-focused initiatives and projects, showcasing the couple’s dedication to giving back to the Nashville community.
In a reflection on the event’s philosophy, Ted and Dede Raad, the founders of Trend, shared their vision. “At Trend, we believe the most meaningful moments happen when community, purpose, and entertainment come together,” they stated. They expressed their pride in partnering with HARDY and Caleigh, noting the inspiring impact of their charitable efforts through The HARDY Fund.
“Off The Record was created to celebrate country music, our city, and the power of giving back,” the Raads continued. Their sentiments captured the essence of the evening: a blend of artistry, community spirit, and social responsibility aimed at making a positive difference.
As the evening drew to a close, the atmosphere was one of joy and camaraderie, with attendees reflecting on the night’s performances and the charitable cause it supported. The event not only marked the beginning of the CMA Fest weekend but also solidified the importance of community engagement within the vibrant Nashville music scene.
With the first night of the festivities being such a resounding success, many are eagerly anticipating what other surprises the CMA Fest weekend will bring. As the lights dimmed at Marathon Music Works, the spirit of Nashville — marked by its strong sense of community and love for music — shone brightly for all to see.