ERNEST Raises $445,000 For Second Harvest Food Bank During Star-Studded Ryman Benefit
- All Country News
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
Nashville native and country hitmaker ERNEST once again proved the power of music to make a difference. On Tuesday night (June 2), the singer-songwriter hosted Stars For Second Harvest 2026 at the legendary Ryman Auditorium, raising an impressive $445,000 for Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.
The annual event brought together some of Nashville's most celebrated songwriters and performers for an unforgettable evening that blended chart-topping music with a meaningful cause.
A Songwriter's Round Packed With Hits
Kicking off the evening was a powerhouse writer's round featuring ERNEST, HARDY, Lee Thomas Miller, and Dean Dillon. Performing in front of a packed house, the acclaimed songwriters treated fans to some of country music's biggest songs while sharing the stories behind them.
The crowd enthusiastically sang along to beloved hits including George Strait's timeless classic "The Chair," Chris Stapleton's "Whiskey and You," Jamey Johnson's "In Color," Morgan Wallen's "Wasted On You," HARDY's "McArthur," ERNEST's "Would If I Could," and many more.
The intimate format showcased the songwriting talent that has helped shape modern country music while highlighting the deep roots of Nashville's songwriting community.
Ella Langley Delivers A Standout Headlining Performance
Fresh off an incredible year that has seen her become one of country music's fastest-rising stars, 12-time ACM Award winner Ella Langley headlined the evening with a captivating stripped-down performance.
Langley treated attendees to fan favorites from her chart-topping sophomore album, Dandelion, along with additional originals that showcased her signature blend of authenticity and powerhouse vocals.
One of the night's most memorable moments came when Langley welcomed ERNEST to the stage for a performance of their co-written song, "Loving Life Again," earning a warm response from the Ryman crowd.
ERNEST's Impact Continues To Grow
Since taking over stewardship of the storied fundraiser three years ago from Big Loud co-founder, legendary songwriter, and longtime mentor Craig Wiseman, ERNEST has continued to expand the event's impact.
With this year's success, ERNEST has now helped raise more than $1.18 million for Second Harvest Food Bank through the annual Stars For Second Harvest writer's round and performance event alone.
The milestone further solidifies the event as one of Nashville's most impactful annual charitable gatherings, bringing together the city's biggest names for a cause that directly benefits families across Middle Tennessee.
Music With A Mission
As the final notes rang through the Mother Church of Country Music, Stars For Second Harvest 2026 once again demonstrated what makes Nashville's music community so special: world-class talent coming together to support neighbors in need.
With $445,000 raised in a single night and more than $1.18 million generated under ERNEST's leadership, the event's legacy of giving continues to grow year after year.
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