A series of four concerts celebrating The Year of Alabama Music’s campaign and Oxford American’s 12th annual Southern Music Issue will come to a close this Saturday at 8 p.m. in the Bama Theatre.
The concert series, which highlights Alabama’s rich musical heritage, is called ABALABIP! after a 1950s song by Eddie Cole, brother of Nat King Cole.
Josh Rothman, director of UA’s Summersell Center for the Study of the South, one of the groups organizing the event, said it was no surprise that the state tourism bureau saw fit to proclaim 2011 “The Year of Alabama Music.”
“Alabama has a long history and rich tradition of producing enormously popular music in a variety of genres,” Rothman said. “We have some real musical treasures here in Alabama, both well-known and under-the-radar. They all deserve to be heard.”
The bands that will play this Saturday are all Alabama natives from a variety of genres. Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit will headline the event. Cleave Eaton & The Alabama All Stars, The Bear and G-side will also perform.
“Most, if not all of the bands performing at the show should appeal strongly to a student demographic,” Rothman said. “Jason Isbell used to perform with the Drive-By Truckers, for example, and G-Side are rising stars in the world of hip-hop.”
Rothman said the goal was to appeal to as wide an audience as possible, and they hoped there would be something for everyone.
“Students are unlikely to find a better deal for music this good anytime this year,” Rothman said.
The concert is $10 for general admission, but student tickets, which can be purchased at the office of the History Department in ten Hoor Hall, are $5.
Tickets will also be available at a table in the Ferguson Center on Friday and in the New College lounge, room 216 in Lloyd Hall on Friday at 3 p.m. during G-Side’s interview with NPR critic Ann Powers.
The proceeds from the concert will go to the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund and the American Red Cross, so attending the concert helps provide some relief for those still suffering from the storms that occurred this past spring.
“We’re happy to be involved in the event,” said Louisa Murray, member of the band The Bear, “especially since the proceeds will help the rebuilding efforts in Tuscaloosa.”
To purchase general admission tickets, visit oxfordamerican.org or call (501) 320-5730.
