CONTRIBUTION TO ACM LIFTING LIVES ON BEHALF OF ARTISTS WHO PARTICIPATED IN “ACM PRESENTS: LIONEL RICHIE & FRIENDS - IN CONCERT"

Encino, CA (September 12, 2012) – The Academy of Country Music is announcing a $750,000 contribution to ACM Lifting Lives, made on behalf of the artists who participated in the taping of “ACM Presents: Lionel Richie and Friends – In Concert” special in Las Vegas in April. Ticket proceeds from the taping went to ACM Lifting Lives®.

Lionel Richie along with special performers Jason Aldean, Marc Anthony, Luke Bryan,Kenny Chesney, Sara Evans, Martina McBride, Tim McGraw, Jennifer Nettles, Kenny Rogers, Darius Rucker, Blake Shelton, The Band Perry, Big & Rich, Lady Antebellum and Rascal Flatts all participated in the taping, with more than 8 million viewers tuning in to the special on CBS in April.

“We thank these incredible artists for donating their time and talents to make it possible for ACM Lifting Lives to continue the good work of improving lives through the power of music,” said Mark Hartley, Chairman of ACM Lifting Lives.

About ACM Lifting Lives

ACM Lifting Lives® is the philanthropic arm of the Academy of Country Music dedicated to improving lives through the power of music.   Each year, ACM Lifting Lives provides grants to music therapy and music education programs.  Other giving includes serving members of the country music community who face unexpected medical or financial hardship through the Diane Holcomb Emergency Relief Fund and partnering with artists to improve lives through music. For more information, please visit www.ACMLiftingLives.org.