country
MUSIC PEOPLE
NEWS
AUGUST 2025 Volume 56 Number 8 Issue 666
Editor Kelly Gregory
Contributors David Allan, Janet Aspley, Donnie Ayers, Craig Baguley, Jonny Brick, Chris Brown, Tony Byworth, Rosie Carter, Don Cusic, Larry Delaney, Julie Flaskett, Marshall Gardener, Michael Hingston, Stan Hitchcock, Tony Ives, Sianna King, Spencer Leigh, John Lomax III, Bryce Martin, Adrian Peel, Paul Riley, Chris Smith, Tom Travis, Walt Trott, Dan Wallace, Dave Watkins, Jack Watkins
New release consultant Steve Tidbury
Photographers Patricia Presley, Barry Dixon
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Please recycle this magazine
George Strait
TEXAS UNITES THROUGH MUSIC
I n the aftermath of the devastating
floods that have ravaged Texas’ Hill
Country, the widespread destruction and grief are impossible to ignore. Entire communities have been flattened, and countless families now face the unbearable loss of children and loved ones.
To help ease the suffering and offer some hope during these dark times, country music icon George Strait, alongside longtime business partner Tom Cusick of Vaqueros del Mar, is spearheading a benefit dinner and concert event titled“ Strait To The Heart.” Set to take place in Boerne, Texas at the Estancia at Thunder Valley indoor arena, this special gathering aims to quickly channel much-needed resources to flood victims and show support for the heroes on the front lines.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Strait shares,“ The destruction and loss in our community from the recent flood is hard to wrap your head around. Our hearts and prayers are with you all. The goal with this event is to raise meaningful, immediate support that can be put directly into the hands of flood victims without delay, while also honoring the first responders that work tirelessly to save lives.”
He also extended his gratitude to his fellow musicians who will join him on stage for the benefit, saying,“ Special thanks to our friends and fellow troubadours— William Beckman, Ray Benson, Wade Bowen, Dean Dillon, Riley Green, Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson, Kyle Park, Hudson Westbrook and members of my Ace in the Hole Band— for joining me on stage to lend their talent and their hearts to this mission.”
Cusick emphasised the urgency of the situation, adding,“ The road ahead will be a long one, however the immediate need is so great that we didn’ t want to wait. Together, we can show our neighbors that when
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