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Scott Hamilton & Friends Rock the Rink For a Ninth Big Time in Nashville

by Rich and Laura Lynch

On Sunday, November 23, 2025, the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville hosted the ninth annual Scott Hamilton & Friends showcase, a unique blend of athletic artistry and musical performance. Olympic champion Scott Hamilton curated the evening that combined dazzling routines from Olympic, World, and National Champion figure skaters with live performances from iconic rock musicians. The event - branded as "Rock the Rink" - was designed not only as entertainment but also as a fundraiser for the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation, which supports cancer research and patient care initiatives.


Scott Hamilton & Friends returned to the Bridgestone Arena in 2025.

This year's musical roster was particularly noteworthy, featuring a "one night only" supergroup consisting of classic rock legendary frontmen backed by the always capable, in demand and often mind-blowing local house band Sixwire. Performers included Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon, Wally Palmar of The Romantics, Mike Reno of Loverboy (joined by his wife Catherine St. Germain), Jason Derlatka of Journey, Jason Scheff of Chicago, and John Elefante of Kansas.

Together, they delivered a setlist packed with anthems from the late 1970s and 1980s, energizing the crowd and complementing the skating performances with live rock-and-roll power.

The skating portion of the evening featured Olympic and world-class athletes performing choreographed routines to the live music. The combination of athletic precision and musical nostalgia created a dynamic spectacle that captivated the audience. The skaters' artistry, paired with the energy of the rock supergroup, underscored the event's theme of resilience and celebration, reflecting Scott Hamilton's own journey as a cancer survivor and advocate.




Scott Hamilton arranged for a "one night only" supergroup made up of classic rock legends including Kevin Cronin, Wally Palmar of The Romantics, Mike Reno of Loverboy, Jason Derlatka of Journey, Jason Scheff of Chicago and John Elefante of Kansas to perform at this year's Scott Cares event.

Highlights for us this year included the strong vocals from Journey's heir apparrent frontman Jason Derlatka who is rumored to be taking over as that group's lead singer once their 2026-27 farewell tour is complete. Wally Palmar of The Romantics provided the soundtrack of "Talking In Your Sleep" for the evening's most ambitious skating routine. Kevin Cronin - the former leader of REO Speedwagon - closed out the show with the unexpected and stormy "Riding the Storm Out" followed by a rollicking "Roll with the Changes" which brought back all the legendary artists to join in on that song's famous sing-along chorus to close the book on another fantastic edition of Scott Cares in Music City.

Beyond the entertainment, the event had a clear philanthropic mission. Proceeds supported the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation, which funds innovative cancer research and patient support programs, including partnerships with Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The evening also featured a silent auction, VIP dinner, and after-show celebration, ensuring that sponsors and patrons could contribute meaningfully while enjoying a memorable night. The community-driven nature of the event reinforced Nashville's reputation as a hub for both music and charitable engagement.

The 2025 edition of Scott Hamilton & Friends continued the tradition of merging sport, music, and philanthropy into one unforgettable evening. By uniting legendary rock performers with elite skaters, the event highlighted the power of collaboration across disciplines to inspire audiences and support vital causes. As the ninth annual showcase, it solidified its place as one of Nashville's premier charity events, leaving attendees with both lasting memories and the satisfaction of contributing to a mission greater than entertainment.




Scott Hamilton & Friends is where arena rock and awe-inspiring ice skating meet in Music City.

Related Links: For more information on SCOTT CARES and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links - Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation | Scott Hamilton & Friends Come Together Once Again For a Cool Cause in Nashville | Scott Hamilton & Friends Return For a Second Big Year in Nashville | Scott Hamilton With A Little Help From His Friends Raises Funds for Cares Foundation | Bridgestone Arena


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