Hard Rock International is bringing its global Ambassadors of Rock Tour to the "crossroads of the world" with an "outlaw country" twist. Known for his amazing string of hits, legendary artist Willie Nelson and friends will bring an unforgettable night of music to Hard Rock Cafe New York in Times Square on Monday, September 10, 2007. Dedicated to its "Save the Planet" motto, Hard Rock's Ambassadors of Rock in New York will also act as the official launch of the Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance, a non-profit organization founded by Willie's wife Annie Nelson, biodiesel advocate Daryl Hannah and members of the sustainable biodiesel community, to promote sustainable biodiesel practices, including the harvesting, production and distribution of biodiesel fuels. Hard Rock's September 10th event will make every effort to be eco-friendly, and "do the right thing," including an offering of food from family farms, using recycled materials for invitations and marketing materials, and more. The exclusive V.I.P. event, benefiting the Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance, will be hosted by award-winning actors Woody Harrelson and Daryl Hannah, and will include a green carpet, featuring special appearances by several of Nelson's closest friends and family. That evening, Willie will also be joined his sons' band, 40 Points, and his daughter's band, Folk Uke, for a special live performance.
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"Some of the biggest names in music have become part of our Ambassadors of Rock program over the last two years -- from The Who and Motley Crue to Aerosmith, The All-American Rejects and P!NK. We are thrilled that Willie Nelson joins the exclusive list of Hard Rock 'Ambassadors,'" said Sean Dee, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Hard Rock International. "We are also proud to support Willie's Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance and take action as a company towards a cleaner, greener Earth."
As a songwriter and performer, Nelson has won Grammy(R) Awards, a President's Merit Award and Lifetime Achievement Award. His credits include "Georgia On My Mind," "Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys," "On The Road Again," "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Stay A Little Longer." More importantly, his work with important global charities, including Farm Aid and recently the Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance, has generated millions of dollars and worldwide exposure for worthwhile causes. The day before his Hard Rock appearance, Willie will also be performing at Farm Aid 2007: A HOMEGROWN Festival at Randall's Island in New York City, alongside several other musicians and supporters of the cause.
Save The Planet!
Committed to its "Save the Planet" motto, Hard Rock is partnering with Willie Nelson to create an environmentally-friendly event -- no easy task for a location in Times Square. Efforts include locally grown and organic food from family farms and recycling the event decor. In lieu of gift bags, which can lead to more waste, Hard Rock will make a donation to the Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance on behalf of each guest in attendance that evening. In addition, moving forward, New York-based Tri State Biodiesel will collect waste grease from Hard Rock Cafe New York to be recycled into clean, renewable Biodiesel fuel, in order to fuel up vehicles on the road -- like Willie Nelson's famous tour bus!
"Hard Rock is exploring all possible sustainable innovations for this event, from renewable energy use to waste reduction and responsible purchasing," said Corina Beczner, green event specialist for the project. "Hard Rock's dedication to the Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance is a great start, and supporting local, family farms and clean energy solutions through this event further demonstrates the brand's commitment and integrity in saving the planet."
