The Recording Academy Hosts 'Grammy Salute to Country Music' 10/12

As part of its ongoing tradition of celebrating musical excellence throughout the year, The Recording Academy will host GRAMMY Salute To Country Music honoring Loretta Lynn on October 12 at 8 p.m. at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN. The star-studded tribute presented by MasterCard will feature live performances and will include a special presentation of The Recording Academy President's Merit Award to Lynn in honor of her dynamic career and contributions to country music.

Honoree and three-time GRAMMY winner Lynn will be saluted with performances by two-time GRAMMY winner Garth Brooks, country music songstress Martina McBride, pop/rock artist Kid Rock, GRAMMY-winning singer Gretchen Wilson, GRAMMY-winning artist Lee Ann Womack, and two-time GRAMMY-winning singer/actress Reba McEntire who will also host the evening's festivities. Eight-time GRAMMY-winning musician/producer Jack White, Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow, and Recording Academy Chair George Flanigen will participate in the event. More performances to be announced shortly.

About The Recording Academy

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards - the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music - The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization's social networks as a follower on Twitter at www.twitter.com/thegrammys, a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/thegrammys, and a channel subscriber at www.youtube.com/thegrammys.

About MasterCard Worldwide

MasterCard Worldwide advances global commerce by providing a critical economic link among financial institutions, businesses, cardholders and merchants worldwide. As a franchisor, processor and advisor, MasterCard develops and markets payment solutions, processes approximately 21 billion transactions each year, and provides industry-leading analysis and consulting services to financial-institution customers and merchants. Powered by the MasterCard Worldwide Network and through its family of brands, including MasterCard®, Maestro® and Cirrus®, MasterCard serves consumers and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. For more information go to www.mastercard.com. Follow us on Twitter: @mastercardnews.