Willie Nelson heads Tsunami concert

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- Country singer Willie Nelson headlined a special concert in Austin that raised nearly $70,000 to aid the Tsumani victims in South Asia.

The Sunday night lineup also included Patty Griffin, Joe Ely, Bruce Robison and a surprise appearance by Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

The performers volunteered their talents for the Tsunami Relief: Austin For South Asia concert organized by Michael Hall, who said all the proceeds would go to charities aiding the Tsunami victims.

Griffin said she instantly agreed to do the show when contacted by Hall.

"What happened just raises awareness for people in need all over the world and in our own country, as well," she said.

A pair of anonymous underwriters paid the incidental expenses for the concert at the Austin Music Hall. Tickets sales raised $67,000, and organizers staffed a phone bank to take in other donations produced by the event.