Helping Hands Concert: Gary Morris and Presley Barker

The Helping Hands Concert Series brings stars from across the music spectrum to Banner Elk this summer for three benefit concerts. Shows take place at Hayes Auditorium on the campus of Lees-McRae College to raise funds for those impacted by Hurricane Helene in Avery and Watauga counties.

The Aug. 8 concert features country music legend Gary Morris and country blues singer Presley Barker of American Idol fame.

Gary Morris has reached No. 1 on the country charts five times with the following songs: “Baby Bye Bye,” “I’ll Never Stop Loving You,” “Makin’ Up for Lost Time,” “100% Chance of Rain” and “Leave Me Lonely.” Morris had three other country songs reach No. 4 on the charts: “The Wind Beneath My Wings,” “Why Lady Why” and “Another World.”

Homegrown talent Presley Barker of nearby North Wilkesboro, NC, began singing and playing guitar at age 7. He appeared on season 19 of American Idol. Other appearances have included NBC’s Today Show with Al Roker and NBC’s Little Big Shots with Steve Harvey.

Each concert in the Helping Hands series is expected to sell out. Tickets are $50 for general admission and $75 for VIP reserved seats. A limited number of fans can purchase tickets to a special VIP meet and greet reception prior to each show. Those meet-and-greet tickets are $225 per person.

For more info or to purchase tickets, visit the Elk River Helping Hands website.