Celebrating Jillian Rae Ludwig through Music

Nashville came together for a moving evening of music and remembrance at the Nashville Jams for Jill benefit show, held in honor of Jillian Rae Ludwig, a beloved Belmont University student whose life was cut short by tragic violence last November. Every note played and every dollar raised went directly to the Rae of Light Foundation, a charity dedicated to preserving Jill's legacy. The evening kicked off with a set by The Deltas, whose energetic performance set a celebratory tone that matched the joy Jill brought to those around her. Adding an emotional touch, they invited Jill’s dear friend Cami Walsh to the stage, bringing a personal layer to the music. 

Following The Deltas, Rosetta took the stage, captivating the audience with their soulful melodies. Their set became even more special with the appearances of Marty Schwartz and Langhorne Slim, both of whom elevated the set with their passion and skill. As the crowd swayed along, the spirit of Jill’s love for music was almost palpable.Next up, Two Trick kept the momentum going, by delivering heartfelt lyrics. When Joelton Mayfield joined them as a guest, the stage crackled with chemistry, as both band and audience fed off the melodic sounds they created together. The fourth act brought an intimate touch to the evening, as Jill’s friend Gilda took the stage, accompanied by Kevian Kraemer, another of Jill's longtime friends, and her boyfriend Thomas Lawrence. This trio brought warmth and nostalgia to the audience, honoring Jill with raw, honest performances that captured her enduring influence on their lives. 

To close out the night, Miles Connor delivered a powerful and fitting finale. His soulful performance served as a tribute not only to Jill’s memory but also to the resilience of those left behind, carrying forward her light and spirit through music. Throughout the night, Nashville Jams for Jill honored Jillian in a way that was both personal and communal, with the shared grief turning into collective resilience. The music, stories, and connections shared on stage reflected the impact Jill had on everyone in her life.

- Abigail Klotz

Photos Courtesy of Abigail Klotz (For Bell Music Magazine)