Charleston, South Carolina – Darius Rucker is set to return to his hometown for a special one-night-only event, the Darius Rucker Big Band Gala, presented by Explore Charleston, on , at the Gaillard Center. The gala will offer a unique opportunity for fans to experience Rucker performing with the Robert Lewis Orchestra, conducted by Peter Graves.
The performance promises an intimate concert setting, diverging from Rucker’s usual large-scale performances. He expressed his enthusiasm for these types of shows, stating, “These big band shows are some of my favorite nights as it’s the only time I get to perform so many of the standards we all grew up listening to with the backing of such an incredible orchestra.”
Beyond the musical experience, the gala carries a significant philanthropic component. A portion of the proceeds will be directed towards two Charleston-area organizations: the CMA Foundation’s music education initiatives for Charleston County Schools and the Carolyn G. Rucker Nursing Scholarship at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital. This commitment reflects Rucker’s longstanding dedication to giving back to the community that shaped him.
Rucker’s connection to the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital runs deep. He previously co-chaired the capital campaign that successfully raised $150 million for the hospital’s construction. His philanthropic efforts extend beyond Charleston, as he has also raised over $5.1 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through his annual Darius and Friends benefit concert and golf tournament.
The CMA Foundation formally recognized Rucker’s humanitarian work in , presenting him with the 2023 CMA Foundation Humanitarian Award. The award acknowledges individuals demonstrating community leadership, financial support, volunteerism, and advocacy for worthwhile causes aligned with the Country Music Association’s values. During the award presentation, Rucker spoke about the influence of his late mother, Carolyn Rucker, and her emphasis on helping those in need, stating that she instilled in him the belief that one should “help people that need help.”
The MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, which benefits from the gala’s proceeds, is a state-of-the-art facility offering advanced pediatric and maternal care. It boasts 250 private beds and serves as South Carolina’s only Level 1 pediatric trauma and burn center, as well as the largest Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the state. The hospital integrates women’s and children’s services, offering a comprehensive and family-focused healthcare environment.
Tickets for the Darius Rucker Big Band Gala will go on sale on , at 10:00 am local time. Ticket prices will range from $50 to $250. Importantly, all tickets are non-transferable and will be delivered electronically to purchasers 48 hours before the event.
Rucker’s dedication to philanthropy is a consistent theme throughout his career. The “Darius and Friends” events, which support St. Jude, have featured performances by a diverse range of artists, including Brooks & Dunn, Brothers Osborne, Kane Brown, Luke Bryan, Luke Combs, Sheryl Crow, Vince Gill, Ashley McBryde, and others. This ongoing commitment underscores his belief in using his platform to make a positive impact.
The Big Band Gala represents a confluence of Rucker’s musical passions and his commitment to supporting vital community resources. By blending a sophisticated musical experience with a charitable purpose, the event aims to benefit both the attendees and the organizations it supports, furthering Rucker’s legacy of giving back to Charleston and beyond.
