Country Singer Kaitlyn Baker Teams Up with MADD to Honor Late Guitarist

Kaitlyn Baker is doing her part to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving.

The emerging country singer ("Coal Train," "To Pieces") has teamed up with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to honor her late guitarist, Thomas Estep, who was killed in a head-on collision in Russell County, Virginia, earlier this year. The driver of the other vehicle, who crossed over the center line, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and driving under the influence. He has not yet been sentenced.

"Thomas meant a lot to everyone he came in contact with," Baker said. "It was so devastating to lose him, especially the way it happened. We wanted to do something meaningful in his memory. It made sense to partner with Mothers Against Drunk Driving."

Baker and her band will perform at the MADD Law Enforcement Recognition Dinner for law enforcement professionals throughout Southwest Virginia on Thursday, September 14, in Abingdon, Virginia. Award recipients and their guests may attend at no charge. However, tickets are available to the general public for $50 each, until September 5. The price includes dinner. All proceeds will benefit MADD.

"Police officers do so much, often risking their own lives to keep all of us safe from impaired drivers," said Christopher Konschak of MADD Virginia. "The MADD Law Enforcement Awards is our way of thanking them. We are also grateful that Kaitlyn Baker and her band are willing to turn their own tragedy into something positive."

Shortly before his death, Estep accompanied Baker on a multi-state promotional tour for her single "To Pieces." Estep's final public performance was a benefit concert in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for victims of the Gatlinburg wildfires. Baker is currently working a new EP, titled "Blackbird," which she plans to dedicate to Estep's memory.

The MADD Annual Law Enforcement Recognition Dinner will take place at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon, Virginia, on Thursday, September 14, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Kaitlyn Baker will perform at approximately 8:00 p.m. For tickets, visit www.madd.org/swva or call 804-353-7121 or 800-533-6233.

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