Nadel’s birthday bash celebrates milestones

By Juliette Coulter

Turning 75 is cause for celebration, and Texas Rangers Hall of Fame radio broadcaster and longtime mental health advocate Eric Nadel marked the milestone May 14 with a packed night of music and community at the historic Longhorn Ballroom, featuring Brooklyn-based headliner Sammy Rae & The Friends and special guest Chuck Prophet and His Cumbia Shoes.

Nadel hosted his 14th annual Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit concert, with proceeds benefiting Grant Halliburton Foundation, a Dallas-based nonprofit marking its 20th anniversary in 2026. The Foundation provides mental health education, resources and support to children, teens and their families across North Texas. The event was presented by Haynes Boone, with KXT 91.7 serving as media sponsor.

The baseball-themed evening featured a silent auction filled with autographed sports memorabilia, celebrity dinners at some of Dallas’ most beloved restaurants and other one-of-a-kind offerings. Volunteers, dressed in Texas Rangers T-shirts, passed out baseball-inspired snacks as guests visited with one another and took in the iconic Longhorn Ballroom’s memorabilia-filled setting.

As the show began, Nadel was surprised with a birthday video tribute featuring messages from many of his family and friends. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate my 75th birthday than by bringing people together for great music and an even greater cause,” Nadel said.

“Tonight, we celebrate two meaningful milestones: Eric’s 75th birthday and Grant Halliburton Foundation’s 20th anniversary year,” Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, said. “Eric is a powerful voice for mental health. We’re grateful for his continued support to help bring hope and help to young people across North Texas.”