Luke Bryan & Ne-Yo to Headline Kentucky Derby Party

The Kentucky Derby is heating up with a star-studded lineup for FanDuel’s inaugural Kentucky Derby Party on May 3.

The event announced on Thursday (April 4), exclusively via Billboard, that Luke Bryan and Ne-Yo will be the headlining performers at the invite-only show, which will take place at Paristown Arts and Entertainment District in Louisville, Kentucky.

“Partnering with FanDuel for the Kentucky Derby party is an absolute honor,” Bryan said in a press statement. “It’s such an iconic event filled with tradition and history, and I hope fans are ready for an unforgettable night – it’s going to be a party!”

“We are grateful for our partnership with Churchill Downs. The Kentucky Derby holds a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide,” added Andrew Moore, general manager of racing at FanDuel. “We’re thrilled to be part of the excitement once again, making this year’s Derby celebration one for the books.”

It’s an exciting year for Bryan, who brought his Southern roots to American Idol, where he’s been a judge since 2018 alongside Katy Perry and Lionel Richie. Bryan took Perry and Richie on a “field trip” to his hometown of Leesburg, Georgia, and showed off the places that helped shape not only many of Bryan’s 26 No. 1 Country Airplay hits, but also who he is as a person.

Ne-Yo, meanwhile, is gearing up to launch his Human Love Rebellion residency at Wynn Las Vegas this August. Before that, he’ll be bringing his Champagne and Roses tour to Europe starting in June.

The 2024 Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday (May 4) around 6:45 p.m. ET. Fans at home can catch the races on NBC, or online via Peacock and YouTube TV.