Gilbert goes local

Gilbert is partnering with Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC) to purchase a selection of products for catering on each concert stop, spotlighting the value locally sourced meats, dairy and produce can make on each community.

FVC helps veterans pursue careers in farming or related agricultural professions. Representing more than 18,000 veteran members, FVC fosters the collaboration of farming and military communities and cultivates a new generation of farmers and food leaders throughout the country.

"I still live in the town where I grew up, and I know that excitement for a show doesn't start when doors open, it has the power to rally the community well ahead of when we show up to load-in and soundcheck," said Gilbert. "Our goal is to help boost local economies, showcase the best foods from the region and spend a bit of time thanking these great folks for all they do."

Gilbert's tour catering partner, Taste Event, will work with local farmers in 25 cities-and-counting on his 2020 tour to create a farm-to-catering approach for the tour's footprint. Farmers furnishing the food are invited to share their stories, dine with the tour, meet Gilbert and stay for the show with their families.

"We hear on a regular basis from our veteran members how farming has meaning beyond a livelihood," said Michael O'Gorman, founder and Executive Director of FVC. "Brantley Gilbert's historic support of veterans is what's so great about this fit - the veterans are really looking for a purpose and a place when they exit the military, and agriculture offers them this purpose and opportunity, with both a physical and psychological benefit. And America's farming community just happens to really need them."

Gilbert is also associating with Musically Fed, a non-profit that distributes excess food each night to organizations tackling hunger in each market.

"Musically Fed is honored to be a partner with Brantley Gilbert on his Fire't Up 2020 Tour and Farmer Veteran Coalition. What a great way to be associated with and working alongside veterans to serve these communities in ways that will benefit many," says Insight Management's Maria Brunner, Founder of Musically Fed. "Our goal is to leave a footprint for it to continue. Special thanks to Brantley Gilbert and his entire team."

Gilbert started his tour on Jan. 23 with two shows in Canada. He follows that up with 32 cities in the U.S.