Hornblower Cruises & Events had the pleasure of hosting Charles Kelley (of Lady Antebellum) on board Inspiration Hornblower on March 2nd. The event was a private concert for the annual St. Jude’s Radiothon Partner-In-Hope Cruise with New Country KSON-FM. With Lady Antebellum on a break, Kelley has ventured on a solo project recently releasing his first album, including collaborations from impressive acts like Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Eric Pasley and Stevie Nicks.

In front of an intimate audience of 300, KSON’s morning show hosts, John & Tammy, took the stage to thank guests and Hornblower Cruises & Events for their generous St. Jude donations amounting to $260,000, before introducing the star of the night, Charles Kelley. Kelley performed several songs from his new album, including Grammy nominated single, “The Driver.” In addition to his new music, he was sure to delight the audience with Lady Antebellum’s hits, “Love Don’t Live Here” and “I Run to You,“ plus throwing in a bonus rendition of the classic “Georgia On My Mind.”

From start to finish, Kelley was a natural performer and easily connected with the crowd. His fun and spontaneous crowd interaction included slow dancing with a couple and climbing a woman’s chair for an up-close-and-personal serenade. The twinkling lights of downtown San Diego provided the ideal backdrop as the superstar ended the night with an acapella “Need You Now,” as the crowd gleefully sang along. Thank you to KSON and Charles Kelley for a memorable evening!

Hornblower Cruises & Events has been a sponsor of the St. Jude’s Radiothon with New Country KSON-FM in San Diego for five years. Past acts include Little Big Town, Craig Morgan, Josh Turner and Lonestar. Watch the video of Charles Kelley’s most recent performance on board: