Backstreet Boys, Blake Shelton among artists headlining hurricane relief concert

The Backstreet Boys, Blake Shelton, Brittney Spencer, Cedric the Entertainer and other artists are teaming up for a performance dedicated to raising funds for response efforts for hurricanes Helene and Milton.

The performances will be broadcasted on Saturday night on CBS and CMT, and streamed on Paramount+ with Showtime. 

United Way Worldwide and Paramount Global partnered to sponsor the hourlong special taped Monday and Tuesday in Nashville, Tenn. The two companies will donate the proceeds to relief in communities hit by an estimated $50 billion in damages.

“I have seen firsthand how United Way rallies local leaders, cross-sector partners, and the community to aid people during times of crisis, and the resources raised by this benefit event will help those in need to recover and rebuild,” said Melissa C. Potter, an executive director of Content for Change at Paramount Global and United Way Worldwide board of trustee member, in a statement. 

Over the past four years, United Way has responded to 200 natural disasters, including Hurricane Irma, Harvey and Katrina where they operated for 10 years.  

The company was founded in 1887 and has mobilized more than $219 million in outside investments to support local needs. 

“United Way has deep roots and trusted relationships in the communities we serve, which enables us to effectively direct resources where they are needed most,” said Byron V. Garrett, chief revenue officer at United Way Worldwide. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided more than $190 million in aid to North Carolina while celebrities like Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton have also offered financial support. 

Officials predict that cities like Asheville, N.C., will have a long road to recovery after the sweeping storms and deadly floods.