Kelly Clarkson has stepped back from her scheduled performance at a charity concert benefiting Texas flood victims after the recent death of her former husband, Brandon Blackstock.
Clarkson’s Withdrawal from the Event
The Grammy-winning artist was set to take the stage at the Band Together Texas concert, a collaborative effort spearheaded by Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum for this Sunday. Event organizers broke the news through an Instagram Story, as covered by Taste of Country, confirming that Clarkson would be stepping away due to personal circumstances. Their message conveyed heartfelt support: “We send our love to Kelly and her family.”
The Band Together Texas Initiative
This charitable concert was conceived to aid communities devastated by July’s flooding across Texas. The star-studded roster includes Miranda Lambert, Parker McCollum, Ryan Bingham, Wade Bowen, Ronnie Dunn, Dylan Gossett, Jack Ingram, Cody Johnson, Lyle Lovett, Lukas Nelson, Jon Randall, and the Randy Rogers Band. Set for August 17 at Austin’s Moody Center, the event will also welcome appearances from beloved Texas figures like Matthew McConaughey, Dennis Quaid, and Chris Harrison.
Back in July, Clarkson had enthusiastically shared the official concert poster featuring her name among the headliners. Her name has now been quietly removed from the lineup.
The Loss of Brandon Blackstock
Brandon Blackstock, who shared two children with Clarkson during their marriage, died on August 7 at 48 following a three-year battle with melanoma. His family released a statement honoring his brave fight against the disease, noting that he passed peacefully while surrounded by those closest to him.
Even before Blackstock’s passing, Clarkson had already made the difficult decision to postpone several Las Vegas residency shows to spend precious time with her family while her ex-husband was battling his illness. She addressed this choice candidly on Instagram, stressing her need to be “fully present” during such a challenging chapter.
Remembrances and Concert Details
Country legend Reba McEntire, who became Blackstock’s stepmother through her previous relationship with his father, shared a touching Instagram tribute celebrating his memory. “His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family,” she wrote. “Rest in peace cowboy. Happy trails to you til we meet again.”
Proceeds from Band Together Texas will support both the Community Foundation of Texas Hill Country and the Central Texas Community Foundation. Concert tickets are still on sale, and those unable to attend can contribute directly through the event’s official website.
