Daytona 500 prerace concert to feature country music star Dierks Bentley
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
DAYTONA BEACH — Somewhere near a beach will have to suffice for Dierks Bentley this February.
The multi-platinum country music recording artist will perform before the start of the 65th Daytona 500 on Feb. 19 Daytona International Speedway announced Monday afternoon.
“I’m ready to get back to Daytona with all the biggest NASCAR fans,” Bentley said via press release. “The energy there is unmatched and I know we will have a blast getting them ready for the race.”
It won't be the first time Bentley's path has crossed with NASCAR or the Daytona 500. Bentley performed during Speedweeks in 2009 and at the 2011 Daytona 500. He also played before the championship race in 2021 at Phoenix.
“We’re honored to welcome Dierks back to the World Center of Racing,” Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher said. “Having an entertainer who knows how to start a party, preforming at the 65th Daytona 500 and kicking off NASCAR’s 75th anniversary season, is a combination fit for a fantastic Sunday.”
KEN WILLIS: Jimmie Johnson adds Le Mans to his 'retirement' duties
NASCAR LE MANS LINEUP: NASCAR's Next Gen Le Mans driver lineup: Jimmie Johnson, Mike Rockenfeller, Jenson Button
CHASE ELLIOTT TO RACE TRUCK: Chase Elliott adds Daytona truck race to his 2023 NASCAR schedule
Who is playing music at the Daytona 500?
Bentley has 21 No. 1 singles to his credit along with three CMA awards and 14 Grammy nominations. He is set to release his 10th album, "Gravel & Gold" on Feb. 24.
Daytona 500 qualifying will kickstart the week on Wednesday, Feb. 15 with the Bluegreen Vacations Duel set for 7 p.m. following night. The Craftsman Truck Series will begin its season on Friday, Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. with an ARCA Menards Series/Xfinity Series doubleheader slated for Saturday at 1:30 and 5 p.m. That all leads to the Daytona 500 on Feb. 19 with Bentley's performance beginning on pit road in front of the grandstands at 1:15 p.m. with the green flag set to drop at 2:30.
While seats in the grandstand have sold out, fans can purchase Fanzone passes or a special VIP add-on for access next to the stage. For more information, visit daytona500.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Dierks Bentley the 2023 Daytona 500 NASCAR prerace entertainment
