3 Doors Down to touch down

Leigh Coleman

Nov. 22, 2009 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- Mississippi rockers 3 Doors Down are returning once again to their home state to kick off the sixth annual Better Life Foundation Concert and Silent Auction set for Dec. 5 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Biloxi.

Local rock disciples can look forward to 3 Doors Down arriving by Blackhawk helicopter in front of the Hard Rock before hitting the stage with Aaron Lewis, lead vocalist and guitarist of the multi-platinum rock band Staind; Mobile-based Top Of The Orange; and other musical guests.

"We are excited The Better Life Foundation and 3 Doors Down have come back to Hard Rock Biloxi," said Duncan McKenzie, Hard Rock's president and general manager.

"It is because of organizations like The Better Life Foundation and 3 Doors Down giving back to the community that makes it all worthwhile. Hard Rock Biloxi believes in Love All Serve All, so any time we are able to participate in a cause that enables us to do so, we help in any way we can."

The high-powered concert and silent auction featuring a custom motorcycle drawing will benefit The Better Life Foundation, which supports children's charities.

The event is sponsored by the Mississippi Army National Guard.

The band's latest album, "3 Doors Down," is its second studio album to debut at No. 1 and fourth album to reach the top 10. It includes the mainstream rock track "It's Not My Time."

3 Doors Down fans will have the chance to be up close and personal at the event with lead singer/songwriter Brad Arnold, lead guitarist Matt Roberts, rhythm guitarist Chris Henderson, bassist Todd Harrell and drummer Greg Upchurch.

The silent auction will begin in the lobby of the Hard Rock at 2 p.m. with concert doors opening at 5 p.m. and performances starting at 6 p.m.

Organizers said last year's Better Life Foundation event at the Hard Rock raised more than $250,000.

General admission is $75 and VIP balcony tickets are $199, which includes food and bar.

Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster (NASDAQ:TKTM) and Hard Rock Live's box office in Biloxi.

Drawing tickets are available for the $80,000 "Citizen Soldier II" motorcycle, which was custom-built by Bourget's Bike Works. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through The Better Life Foundation and 3 Doors Down Web site.

Newstex ID: KRTB-0021-39922799