Fans, artists, and community members packed the Toyota Music Factory Monday night for “Koe Wetzel & Friends: Stronger Together,” a benefit concert that proved the power of music and unity in the face of adversity. Spearheaded by Wetzel, a Pittsburg native, the event raised an inspiring $774,870—and counting. Proceeds from the show go to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund through his foundation, Koe’s Kids.
With a raffle for a Can-Am Defender Max Lone Star Cab, courtesy of Progressive Powersports in Granbury, TX,, still open through Labor Day weekend, and donations continuing to pour in, the total is expected to climb even higher.
The night was a celebration of Texas spirit, featuring unforgettable performances from Wetzel and a stellar lineup of friends: Kolby Cooper, Casey Donahew, Ray Wylie and Lucas Hubbard, Pecos Hurley of Pecos & The Rooftops, Mike Ryan, Shane Smith of Shane Smith & The Saints, and Dylan Wheeler. From the opening chords of Wetzel’s “February 28, 2016” to Wheeler’s heartfelt cover of “Strawberry Wine,” the energy never waned. Ray Wylie Hubbard’s duet with his son Lucas and Hurley’s rousing rendition of “Courtesy of the Red White & Blue” were just a few highlights in a night brimming with musical camaraderie.
View this post on Instagram
Koe Wetzel Grateful for the Nationwide Support
“To see how packed the fans had the Pavilion on a Monday night – that love and support for this cause meant everything,” Wetzel reflected. “I can’t say thank you enough to my buddies who came out and donated their time, too. Seeing them all get up there and play with the band I’m blessed to stand on stage with every night is something I won’t forget for a long time!”
The Dallas Observer captured the night’s magic: “The acts came and went, the crowd was electric, the building was rocking and the atmosphere was a country music dream… Texans help Texans.” Wetzel echoed that sentiment from the stage, declaring, “If this isn’t a testament to what we are, who we are as a state, I don’t know what god damn Texas means. I’m so f*ckin’ proud to be a Texan.”
For those who missed the show or want to relive the excitement, the full livestream remains available online. The event’s success was made possible by generous partners including Raising Cane’s, PBR, Texas Rangers, Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars, and more—proving once again that when Texans come together, they’re truly stronger together.