The Country Music Association will present Kellie Pickler as the special guest performer at the Licensing Expo Opening Night Party June 17 in Las Vegas, Nev.

The networking event, which will take place on the first day of Licensing Expo at the Mandalay Bay Beach Club, is being held in association with NFL Players Inc. and is sponsored by the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association.

Last year, the party was co-hosted by Flo Rida and attracted 2,400 brand owners, retailers and licensees.

CMA member and country music artist Kellie Pickler has been a fan favorite ever since she was a top six contestant on the fifth season of “American Idol.” Since her appearance on the show, she has released four albums (including her most recent, “The Woman I Am”), received three CMT Awards and three ASCAP Awards, made countless television appearances and won the Mirror Ball trophy on “Dancing with the Stars.”  

“Country music continues to experience record-setting popularity, so now is the perfect time to showcase our exciting genre to the licensing and brand community,” says Damon Whiteside, senior vice president, marketing and partnerships, CMA. “We are thrilled to present a headlining performance by the multi-talented Kellie Pickler, who is an ideal representative of today’s country music.”

Founded in 1958, the CMA represents the country music industry, serving as an educational and professional resource for its 7,000 members and advancing the growth of country music around the world.

“Country Music has such a wide-range appeal, so I am really looking forward to the opportunity to perform at Licensing Expo’s Opening Night Party,” says Pickler. “I’m especially honored to be representing the music genre I love and the Country Music Association.” 

“We are thrilled to have the Country Music Association, the true voice of country music, as our co-host and Kellie Pickler as our special guest performer for the biggest party in the licensing industry,” says Jessica Blue, vice president, Licensing Expo. “Licensing and brand collaborations make great sense for successful and respected music artists as they look to develop unique partnerships that resonate with their fan base.”   

Only registered attendees of Licensing Expo can purchase tickets for the Opening Night party. To buy tickets, register for Licensing Expo and get more details on the show itself and the Opening Night Party, visit LicensingExpo.com.