Country Artists Collaborate Out of Friendship, Not Fees, Says Jay DeMarcus

Rascal Flatts member explains how camaraderie shapes surprise concert appearances by fellow artists.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, country artists often invite each other to make surprise appearances at concerts out of personal relationships and the spirit of collaboration, rather than for appearance fees. DeMarcus cited examples of Rascal Flatts joining Taylor Swift on stage and Carly Pearce appearing with Rascal Flatts, all done as favors between friends rather than for financial compensation.

Why it matters

This insight into the collaborative nature of the country music community provides a contrast to other genres where guest appearances may come with a price tag. It highlights the camaraderie and mutual support among country artists that helps drive the live concert experience for fans.

The details

DeMarcus explained that when one country artist invites another to make a surprise appearance, "If you have a relationship, they just do it out of the kindness of their heart." He pointed to Rascal Flatts joining Taylor Swift on her 2013 tour to perform "What Hurts the Most" together, as well as Rascal Flatts bringing out Carly Pearce during 2025's CMA Fest, all done as favors between friends rather than for any fees. DeMarcus noted this is typically not the case in other music genres where "there's usually a price tag attached to it in the pop world."

  • In 2013, Rascal Flatts joined Taylor Swift on her tour to perform "What Hurts the Most" together.
  • During CMA Fest 2025, Rascal Flatts brought out Carly Pearce to join them on their hit "My Wish."

The players

Jay DeMarcus

A member of the country music group Rascal Flatts and the owner of Red Street Records.

Taylor Swift

A popular country-turned-pop music artist who invited Rascal Flatts to join her on stage during her 2013 tour.

Carly Pearce

A rising country music artist who joined Rascal Flatts on stage during CMA Fest 2025.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If you have a relationship, they just do it out of the kindness of their heart.”

— Jay DeMarcus, Rascal Flatts member and record label owner (tasteofcountry.com)

“She asked us to come out on The Red Tour when she was here a few years back, I think [2013], and we just did it because we love her. We showed up and did 'What Hurts the Most' with her and hugged her neck.”

— Jay DeMarcus, Rascal Flatts member and record label owner (tasteofcountry.com)

“When you have a personal relationship, you do favors.”

— Jay DeMarcus, Rascal Flatts member and record label owner (tasteofcountry.com)

The takeaway

The collaborative spirit and camaraderie among country artists, where they support each other on stage out of friendship rather than financial compensation, provides a unique contrast to the more transactional nature of guest appearances in other music genres. This insight highlights the tight-knit community and mutual admiration that helps define the country music scene.