Pop music icon Taylor Dayne will take center stage this fall as the headliner of the 2026 Women Who Rock Benefit Concert, an annual event that blends live music with a powerful mission to advance women's health research.

The concert, presented by Gibson Gives, is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, at Stage AE in Pittsburgh. Organizers say the event is designed to be much more than a night of entertainment. It serves as a fundraising platform for critical research conducted by the Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, the nation's first and largest research institute dedicated exclusively to women's health.

Dayne, whose career has spanned more than 30 years, rose to international fame with hits such as "Tell It To My Heart" and "Love Will Lead You Back." With more than 75 million records sold worldwide and a reputation for crossing musical genres from pop and dance to R&B and rock, she brings both star power and a history of perseverance to this year's event.

Joining Dayne on the all-female-fronted lineup will be acclaimed guitarist and vocalist Malina Moye, who will open the evening with her signature rendition of the National Anthem. Rock and soul favorites The Vindys will return to the Women Who Rock stage, while singer-songwriter Kalie Shorr will perform her empowering anthem "Fight Like A Girl" during the SURVIVORS WHO ROCK tribute presented by UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital. DJ Formosa and the winner of the 2026 Women Who Rock Rising Star Contest will also appear throughout the evening.

Beyond the performances, attendees can expect a full event experience. The signature Pink Carpet entrance, presented by UPMC Health Plan, will welcome guests before they enjoy interactive attractions including a Beauty Bar with complimentary beauty experiences, a social media photo booth, and the popular Rockstar Silent Auction. VIP ticket holders will gain access to an exclusive lounge, gifting suite, and pre-show happy hour. Kelly Dzanaj of 100.7 Star FM will once again serve as emcee.

While the concert celebrates women in music, its mission reaches far beyond the stage.

According to Women Who Rock organizers, women account for more than half of the world's population, yet women's health research receives less than 10 percent of federal funding. With research budgets facing growing uncertainty nationwide, advocates say community-driven fundraising efforts have become increasingly important.

The proceeds from the concert directly support research into some of the most pressing health challenges affecting women, including breast and gynecologic cancers, heart disease, infertility, maternal and infant health, mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and infectious diseases such as HIV and COVID-19.

Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation CEO Michael Annichine emphasized the importance of partnerships that help sustain scientific progress.

"Women’s health continues to face significant gaps in clinical research, clinical trials, and funding," Annichine said. "Partnerships with organizations like Women Who Rock and Gibson Gives help close critical funding gaps, fuel innovation, and raise awareness about the importance of investing in women's health."

Women Who Rock founder and CEO Melinda Colaizzi said the organization's mission has become increasingly urgent as funding challenges continue to affect research efforts nationwide.

"Women Who Rock was built on the belief that music can spark real change," Colaizzi said. "Together, we're proving that when women come together, we don't just amplify voices. We accelerate progress and create meaningful, lasting impact."

Gibson's Chief Marketing Officer Beth Heidt echoed that sentiment, describing the partnership as a reflection of the company's commitment to empowering women both in music and in communities around the world.

Founded as a female-led movement, Women Who Rock has grown into a global platform dedicated to elevating women in music, supporting female leadership, and advocating for better healthcare outcomes. Its annual benefit concert has become a flagship event that combines entertainment with purpose, drawing artists, advocates, and supporters together under a shared goal.

Tickets for the 2026 Women Who Rock Benefit Concert go on sale Friday, June 26, at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. All proceeds will benefit the Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation and its ongoing efforts to improve the health and well-being of women worldwide.

Tickets available here.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.