Trend’s ‘Off The Record’ with HARDY & Friends Raises Over $400,000 Through A Night of Music and Giving

Country music stars, content creators, and members of the music industry came together at Marathon Music Works on June 3 for Trend’s annual CMA Fest kickoff event, Off The Record with HARDY & Friends.

The invite-only event was hosted by talent management and influencer marketing agency Trend to benefit The HARDY Fund and Unlimited Play, an organization dedicated to creating inclusive playgrounds where children of all abilities can play together without barriers.

Throughout the night, attendees were treated to a lineup packed with surprise appearances and epic collaborations from some of country music’s biggest names. HARDY kicked things off alongside Lauren Alaina with a performance of their chart-topping hit, “ONE BEER,” setting the tone for a evening.

From there, Stephen Wilson Jr. took the stage before HARDY welcomed Ella Langley for a pair of fan-favorite songs, including “Be Her.” The surprises continued when Miranda Lambert joined them for a performance of Langley’s No. 1 hit, “Choosin’ Texas.”

The excitement continued when Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild made her way in front of the crowd, and shortly after was joined by Lambert and Langley as well as Lainey Wilson for a powerhouse, female-led performance of “Better Man” and “Girl Crush.” Wilson also shared a solo moment with HARDY, teaming up for a performance of their hit collaboration, “wait in the truck.”

The final two performances of the night featured ERNEST and Tucker Wetmore, who brought the live music portion of the event to a close with a performance of his breakout hit, “Brunette.”

Beyond the music, the event offered plenty for guests to experience. Marathon Music Works was transformed into a Southern-inspired elevated dive bar complete with interactive games, saloon-style photo opportunities, and portrait sessions captured by photographer Katie Kauss in partnership with Free People. Attendees could also commemorate the evening with flash tattoos and piercings while enjoying food and drinks as they mingled with one another.

However, the event’s charitable mission remained the sole focus of the evening. Those in attendance had the opportunity to bid on exclusive experiences and unique items through both silent and live auctions, resulting in more than $400,000 being raised for The HARDY Fund. Founded by HARDY and his wife, Caleigh Hardy, the organization aims to support community-focused initiatives throughout Mississippi and Tennessee. Proceeds from the silent auction will also benefit Unlimited Play and its important mission.

Off The Record with HARDY & Friends served as a memorable kickoff to one of the biggest weeks in Nashville, taking place just days before CMA Fest 2026.

To learn more about The Hardy Fund and how to donate, visit thehardyfund.org.