Sound & Scene: Alabama Fan Appreciation – The road to success | Lifestyle

Take it back to 1973 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The Fort Payne boys headed to the East Coast to begin their residency at a local hotspot, the Bowery. At the time, they were called Wildcountry, but little did they know they would soon become the supergroup Alabama, changing the country music genre. All they wanted was to make music and be themselves while doing it — creating lyrics that take listeners back to their hometowns, family suppers and what makes the South, the South.

Greg Fowler, born and raised in South Carolina, was a DJ at a local radio station in Myrtle Beach. Radio was everything in those years. His station happened to be directly across from Benton Trailer Park, where Randy, Teddy and Jeff stayed during their stint at the Bowery. It was there that “My Home’s in Alabama” was written. Greg still recognizes the song as his favorite Alabama song.

Alabama signed with RCA in 1980. They were truly unstoppable, producing a string of No. 1 hits. The harmonies, foot-stomping rhythms and every part of the movement Alabama created were magic. “Tennessee River” was the first track they released with RCA, and they never stopped climbing to the top of the country music charts. The first act to win Entertainer of the Year three years in a row, Alabama captured the hearts of fans in a way few artists ever have.

June is the month for Alabama fans. It is the month fans celebrate their hometown boys and all the success they have achieved.

June 18-21 — or “Small Town Southern Weekend,” as fans have come to call it — features events including “Singin’ with the Stars” at the Songwriters Showcase, which is stacked with talent this year. Tickets for the Songwriters Showcase are almost sold out. Tickets are still available for the Fan Jam and for a meet-and-greet with Alabama fan club members, though they are expected to sell out. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance.

Fans can visit the Alabama Fan Club online at www.thealabamaband.com.

For more information or to have a favorite Alabama memory featured, email [email protected].

Jess Goggans is a local musician and the music, art and culture correspondent for Southern Torch. Follow her weekly column for details on upcoming events in Jackson County and surrounding area.