The Merle Haggard tribute concert slated for April 6 in Nashville just keeps getting bigger and bigger. Which makes sense, considering the Hag's far-reaching influence on the music world. Alabama, Toby Keith and ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons will join the star-studded group.
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Merle Haggard passed away April 6, 2016 after a bout with pneumonia. And now some of the biggest names in music plan to honor him one year later at Bridgestone Arena.
For many, the event is a celebration of his life. After all, April 6 is also his birthday. Haggard would have turned 80 that day.
The current tribute concert lineup is staggering. Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, Miranda Lambert and Kenny Chesney just scratch the surface of artists playing the event. Others include Dierks Bentley, Loretta Lynn, The Avett Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
The official title of the show is Sing Me Back Home: The Music Of Merle Haggard. Show producer Keith Wortman says the whole thing pays tribute to his life and talent. "His music and lyrics continue to shape the lives of musicians and millions of fans," Wortman says. "I can't think of any better way to celebrate his 80th birthday than to honor his legacy with this extraordinary event. It's going to be an unforgettable evening."
Additional artists include Alison Krauss, Ronnie Dunn and Jamey Johnson. Seriously, this concert is massive. You can find more info about the whole evening here. Some tickets were originally available for $45, but only those priced at $85 and $125 remain. Be sure to snag them soon, however. They keep flying off the shelves with every new artist announcement.
Merle Haggard remains an American country music icon. The singer received the Kennedy Center Honors as well as a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Haggard also received the BMI Icon Award and Country Music Hall of Fame honors.
READ MORE: Willie Nelson's New Record "God's Problem Child" Features Tribute to Merle Haggard
In addition to his musical success, Merle pushed the boundaries of politics in country music. By the time he passed away, Haggard earned respect as one of the most successful American musicians of all time.
