Rita Wilson to Open Sugarland’s Indiana Tribute Concert
Sugarland will wrap up their Incredible Machine tour tonight (Oct. 28), with a free show in Indianapolis, to honor those who lost their lives or were injured in the devastating stage collapse in August. The duo will kick off the show with a surprise celebrity guest, who is best known for her roles in blockbuster films.
Rita Wilson, who has appeared in 'Sleepless in Seattle, 'Runaway Bride' and 'It's Complicated,' will open the show with songs from her upcoming debut album, 'AM/FM,' which will be released in February.
"I've always felt more comfortable with music than acting," the 55-year-old admits to Billboard magazine, adding that the decision to release a project of her own music was one she took very seriously.
"So many people have tried to do it and came before me," she notes. "I want people to think I deserve to be here, and not someone who woke up one morning and decided to make an album."
The upcoming CD will include guest vocals from Vince Gill, Sheryl Crow, Faith Hill, Jackson Browne, J.D. Souther and Jimmy Webb.
No word yet if Rita's husband, movie star and producer Tom Hanks, will join his wife in Indianapolis. Sharing opening act duties with Rita will be singer-songwriter Corey Cox, who is from Indiana.
The concert is Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush's way of hoping to ease a bit of the pain resulting from the seven lives lost and more than 40 who were seriously injuried.
"This Incredible Machine is more than a tour and more than a set," they share on their website. "We have always celebrated music as a Healer. While music cannot change the events and losses at the Indiana State Fair, it can hopefully serve as a ritual and a balm to provide comfort and facilitate healing in this time of great sorrow. We hope to see you all soon."
Following tonight's show, the duo will next perform at the CMA Awards, where they are nominated for Vocal Duo of the Year. They will also take the stage at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, Norway on Dec. 11.