Phil Vassar Opens NASCAR Event With National Anthem Performance

NASHVILLE, TN. (Arista Nashville) - This weekend, country music singer-songwriter Phil Vassar will open NASCAR's UAW GM Quality 500 by singing the National Anthem. The event will be nationally televised live on NBC from the Lowe's Motor Speedway in Charlotte, NC. The broadcast starts at 7:00PM on Saturday, October 15th. Check local listings for details.

Outside of being a fan of the sport, Phil's association with NASCAR began earlier this year. His image was highlighted in the paint scheme on Bobby Labonte's No. 47 Chevrolet 'Nashville' All Star Phil Vassar Silverado at the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in March of 2005. Phil was also named Grand Marshall of that race. Phil has also supported 2002's NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion Tony Stewart's charity organization. On October 5, Phil performed at the 2nd Annual Tony Stewart Foundation Benefit Concert in Paducah, KY. Seven other NASCAR drivers were in attendance of the event where they sat for a Q&A session after Phil's concert. Proceeds from the benefit went to the Easter Seals West Kentucky and the Dream Factory - Paducah Chapter.

The piano-pounding, award-winning, songwriting Vassar has been highly visible supporting his current Arista Nashville album "Shaken Not Stirred," which features the No 1 single "In A Real Love," as well as his current single, "Good Ole Days." The accompanying music video is in current rotation on CMT and GAC. Phil's recently shared his stage with American Idol winner Carrie Underwood, rock icon Huey Lewis and a succession of successful performers including Gavin DeGraw, Robert Randolph, Ronnie Milsap, Sara Evans and Five for Fighting's John Ondrasik. He penned and performed "Live For Today," the song being used by NBC's Today Show on a segment of the same name. Phil is widely regarded as one of country's most energetic performers, that has earned fan support and widespread critical acclaim.