Country music veteran Lee Greenwood is set to take the stage at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 19, 2024, as part of the Bass Pro Shops Night Race weekend. The performance marks his first appearance at the track since 2018 and adds a patriotic flourish to a schedule already packed with high‑stakes racing.
A Patriotic Prelude to the Chase
Greenwood, an 83‑year‑old Southern California native, will deliver his signature anthem "God Bless the USA," a song that has resonated at Bristol on multiple occasions since the 1980s. The track has become a backdrop for moments of national pride, from the 1988 presidential campaign to the aftermath of the 2001 attacks.
The race weekend features the NASCAR Cup Series’ post‑season showdown, the Food City 300 in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series, and the UNOH 250 Truck Series opener. Together, these events contribute to the ten‑race NASCAR Chase for the Cup Series, where 16 drivers compete for the season championship.
Adding to the spectacle, a trained bald eagle named Lincoln will soar over the stadium during Greenwood’s set, a tradition coordinated with the American Eagle Foundation. The eagle’s flight is intended to heighten the patriotic atmosphere for fans gathered at the historic half‑mile track.
Jerry Caldwell, president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, described the moment as a "thrilling patriotic highlight" that blends the track’s racing heritage with American pride. His remarks underscore the event’s significance as both a sporting and cultural gathering.
Fans can expect a weekend where speed, competition, and musical patriotism converge, underscoring the cultural significance of the event within the sport. As the NASCAR Chase progresses, the blend of music and racing promises to leave a lasting impression on attendees and viewers alike.