Garth Brooks Joins George Strait for Surprise Performance at Texas Flood Relief Concert, Raising $6.25 Million

Garth Brooks was George Strait's surprise guest recently at Strait's "Strait To The Heart," a benefit dinner and concert to support the victims of the catastrophic flooding across Texas' Hill Country. Held at Estancia at Thunder Valley in Boerne, Texas, the sold-out event, which drew 1,200 people, raised $6.25 million.

"Try to remember, the great ones surround themselves with great people," Garth said. "The King surrounds himself with the best. The band, the guys putting the show together...they were all top shelf.”

Texas Jamm Band, including members of Strait's Ace in the Hole Band, launched the night, which also included performances from Strait, Garth, and others.  Famed Pastor and author Max Lucado was there to offer a prayer.

"During a time of tragedy, it's essential that we do our very best, as difficult as it may be, to see everything from God's perspective," Lucado said.

While the evening had somber moments remembering the 135 people lost to the early July flooding, the event also celebrated the resilient spirit of the Lone Star State and its people.

"The biggest surprise to me was the crowd," Garth said. "Usually at fundraisers, you don't get a crowd that listens like they are in your living room and then erupts like you're in a stadium. But that's Texas.  They love their country music, and they love their chosen son. It was an honor to get to be part of hopefully the beginning of the healing process.”

Those who wish to donate to help provide immediate relief to the Texas Hill Country victims can do so here.