Clarkson withdraws from Band Together Texas after Blackstock's death

Kelly Clarkson has withdrawn from Band Together Texas, the Aug. 17 flood-relief benefit in Austin, citing personal circumstances in the wake of her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock’s death. Organizers posted the news on social media, noting that Clarkson would be unable to appear as planned and sending condolences to her family. The multi-artist fundraiser, led by Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum, remains slated to feature a star-studded lineup at the Moody Center, with proceeds supporting communities affected by July’s floods in Texas.

Band Together Texas was organized to rally support for flood-impacted residents and rebuild efforts, with a program that also includes on-stage tributes from first responders and rescue workers. In addition to Lambert and McCollum, the bill was set to showcase performances by a broad roster of country and roots artists, including Ryan Bingham, Wade Bowen, Ronnie Dunn, Dylan Gossett, Jack Ingram, Cody Johnson, Lyle Lovett, Lukas Nelson, Jon Randall, and the Randy Rogers Band. Celebrities and Texas natives such as Matthew McConaughey, Dennis Quaid, and Chris Harrison were announced as appearances, underscoring the event’s high-profile profile and...