Marty Stuart has been tapped to host the 9th Annual Grammy Foundation Music Preservation Project, "The Soul of Country," on Thursday, February 8, 2007 in Los Angeles. "The Soul of Country" celebrates the history of country music with performances and appearances by new and old Grammy winners and nominees.

Stuart, who is nominated this year for "Best Bluegrass Album" for Live at the Ryman, will also play an unplugged solo mandolin performance, before he welcomes special guests including Deana Carter, Shooter Jennings and the .357's, Joe Nichols, Charley Pride, LeAnn Rimes and Porter Wagoner. Also in attendance will be Solomon Burke, Academy Award nominee Terrence Howard, Carrie Underwood, and Recording Academy and Grammy Foundation President Neil Portnow.

"Country music is America's music," said Stuart. "For the Grammy Foundation to recognize its cultural impact is an award within itself. I'm honored to be a part of such an event."

"The Soul of Country" will showcase footage from the archives of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and will celebrate the contributions of country music to the American cultural landscape. The event will feature highlight films from the Grand Ole Opry and live musical performances.