Morgan Wallen Makes a $30,000 Investment in the Next Generation of Musicians

Although Morgan Wallen once found himself surrounded by negative headlines, nothing could stop his rise in country music. Adding to his long list of accolades was his latest album, I’m the Problem. Appearing to embrace the rowdy years of his life, the singer watched the album dominate the charts, landing No. 1 on the US Top Country Albums and the US Billboard 200. It also went No. 1 in the UK and Australia. If that wasn’t enough, it spawned two tours. But among all Wallen’s accomplishments, nothing compared to how he used his fame to give back to the next generation. 

Having spent over a decade in country music, Wallen understood that he had inspired more than a few people. It’s easy to search Spotify and find singers who often mimicked his signature sound. But while helping and inspiring, Wallen wanted to do more than just be an example. He wanted to take action. That’s when the Morgan Wallen Foundation was formed. 

Supporting local youth music and athletic programs, the Morgan Wallen Foundation has donated more than $1 million. Not pouring all that money into one school, the foundation spread it across 26 schools in cities he visited while on tour. And the latest recipient was the Scarlett Middle School Bands department. 

[RELATED: Morgan Wallen Fires Back at Online “Nonsense” After Canceled Pittsburgh Show: “Simply Not True”]

Morgan Wallen Quietly Fuels Next Generation Of Musicians

When receiving a donation, department directors Caroline Fitzgerald and Amanda Blackson were visibly shocked to see $30,951 worth of instruments. That included 3 alto saxophones, 5 bass clarinets, 4 marimba yarn mallets, and 4 vibraphone yarn mallets.

Collaborating with the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, the Morgan Wallen Foundation helped fuel the next generation of musicians. Overwhelmed by the singer’s generosity, Kimberly Coulson-Mobley, the Fine Arts and Special Area Coordinator, thanked the foundations for helping keep music alive. “Thank you, Mr. Wallen and Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, and congratulations to Ms. Fitzgerald, Ms. Blackson, and the Scarlett Middle School Band Program!”  

While Wallen quickly learned to keep his distance from the media and headlines, the singer continued to use his fame to expand beyond his stardom. And for the students at Scarlett Middle School, his success meant new instruments, new opportunities, and perhaps even a few future country stars.

(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ABA)