Local

K92.3's ‘Country Strong' concert benefits Pulse victims

ORLANDO, Fla. — More than a week after the terror attack at Pulse nightclub, Orlando stands stronger than ever.

And Tuesday night, “Orlando Strong” turned “Country Strong” to benefit those affected by the mass shooting--the survivors and families of the victims.

Cox Media Group, WFTV's parent company, K92.3FM, WFTV Channel 9, and WDRQ-TV27 hosted a special concert with 10,000 people packing the CFE Arena.

The show sold out as quickly as it had come together.

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Attendees, both on and off the stage, said they all went for the same reason: to do something to help, and to give to the survivors, victims and first responders.

Nine major country artists performed for the fans.

“Coming to this concert, giving back to Orlando, and also, there are great people here tonight. It's the least we can do,” said attendee Maddy Lightfoot.

Lightfoot came with a sign in hand to remember her friend, who was killed inside Pulse nightclub.

“It's just such a hard time. Giving back is what's really needed right now, because it was such a big hit,” she said.

The hit was felt by artist Michael Ray, a Central Florida native, who wanted to come help.

“Without second-guessing, we've got to be here for each other and lift our city back up,” Ray said.

Artists Maddie & Tae, Billy Currington, Tyler Farr, Cole Swindell, Canaan Smith, Easton Corbin, Parmalee and Jerrod Niemann, all performed.

They stopped between songs to pay tribute to victims, survivors and first responders.

“Orlando is such a place, a lot of people think of as a magical place. People come here for vacations,” Ray said.

“To see the community keep that going is just a very special thing,” Ray said.

All of the proceeds, from the show, parking and shirt sales, will be donated to the OneOrlando Fund.