hayley williams love rising
[Courtesy of YouTube]

See Hayley Williams give an emotional performance at a benefit for LGBTQ+ rights in Nashville

Hayley Williams has had a huge week, with Paramore kicking off the first few opening dates on Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. Last night, though, she stepped back from her busy schedule to take time to support her home city of Nashville and LGBTQ+ rights.

Williams was among the performers at the Love Rising benefit concert, an event that raised funds for LGBTQ+ organizations in response to Tennessee’s recent passing of bills that target the queer community, ranging from limitations on drag shows to transgender health care. The concert went down at the Bridgestone Arena and also saw sets from Julien Baker, Brittany Howard, Hozier, Jason Isbell, Maren Morris, and more.

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Williams was joined by her friend and fellow artist Becca Mancari to play “Inordinary,” her song off her 2021 solo album FLOWERS for VASES / descansos, as well as a cover of the country song “Did I Shave My Legs For This?” by Deana Carter. During the latter, she was joined by “her friend Brian,” a drag performer.

The Paramore frontwoman also spoke extensively about what Nashville means to her, and criticized the recent legislation, saying how it’s complicated her and others’ relationship with the city. “The creative community here, the artists, the people that I have met here, many of who are part of the LGBTQ+ community have changed my life and made me a better person,” she said on stage. “I’m so grateful to be a part of fighting for all of you.”

Watch the emotional performance below.