Raye Makes History With One of the First Live Concerts Since COVID-19 Outbreak
Nashville, Tenn. — Over the weekend, multi-platinum selling country artist Collin Raye performed one of the first live concerts since the restrictions of COVID-19 took effect earlier this year. Roughly 4,000 concertgoers were in attendance on Saturday, June 13, when Raye took the stage at the Iron Springs Resort in Cedar City, Utah.
The show’s main purpose was to revive and support local businesses that have been devastated by the national shut down restrictions. With the help of the Utah Business Revival, more than 100 small businesses set up booths at the venue, with many owners confessing they could finally pay their mortgages with the profits they made.
“It was such a joy to see so many people in Utah smiling, dancing and having a wonderful time,” says Raye. “I am humbled and honored to have been the entertainment for such a historic moment.”
“In America, we don’t quit,” says Eric Moutsos, Utah Business Revival organizer. “It was a battle to finally host one of the first American concerts since COVID-19, but it was a victory for freedom. The spirit of liberty was strong and everyone who attended felt it. I’m so thankful Collin Raye put himself out there to support small businesses in Utah.”
The country singer’s concert was originally scheduled for Saturday, May 30 in Kaysville, Utah but was forced to relocate to Cedar City due to COVID-19 concerns and local government rulings.
Raye’s performance not only stimulated small business owners, but some attending became emotional about getting out of the house and receiving even a small sense of normalcy.
One attendee shared, “I’ve been struggling with depression pretty hard the last few weeks. It’s been an exhausting battle that I didn’t see an end to. This concert helped more than I expected. The music and joy and the atmosphere was so wholesome and uplifting. At one point, I distinctly felt the mental burden melt away.”
“To see so many people enjoying and exercising their freedom without fear in such a peaceful and joyful manner, it was truly uplifting to my heart and soul,” adds Raye. “Music is such a powerful tool for human healing and recovery, and that was truly and clearly evident in Utah on Saturday.“
Those in attendance were encouraged to wear masks and follow sensible safety guidelines.