Thistle Farms, the nonprofit for women survivors based in Nashville, hosted a sold-out show on April 3 at the Ryman Auditorium. The “Love on Fire” event included performances by Ruby Amanfu, Brandi Carlile, Shemekia Copeland, Levi Hummon, Inversion Vocal Ensemble and John Prine, along with readings by survivors of trafficking, prostitution and addiction.
Amy Grant received the The 2019 Thistle Farmer of the Year Award for many years of generous support and service. Tanya Tucker joined Carlile for an unannounced, show-stopping rendition of her massive hit, “Delta Dawn,” which closed out the night with a standing ovation.
Levi Hummon opened the night with “Love Heals,” a tune he penned with his father Marcus Hummon and Tom Douglas, about the organization that was begun by his mother—Becca Stevens, Thistle Farms Founder & President—over two decades ago.
“Watching Levi sing our theme song on the Ryman stage was a proud moment as his momma and the founder of Thistle Farms,” reflected Stevens. “All the artists sang about love’s healing power. We are thrilled we have already raised $270,000 to provide more women survivors housing and jobs. We also loved getting to share our story with all the Brandi Carlile and John Prine fans!”
About the Author
Hollabaugh, a staff writer at MusicRow magazine, has over 20 years of music business experience and has written for publications including American Profile, CMA Close Up, Nashville Arts And Entertainment, The Boot and Country Weekly. She has a Broadcast Journalism and Speech Communication degree from Texas Christian University, (go Horned Frogs), and welcomes your feedback or story ideas at lhollabaugh@musicrow.com.View Author Profile