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Biography
Cousins Randy Owen (lead vocalist/ guitar), and Teddy Gentry (backing vocals/ bass) formed the band, and together they recruited their other cousin Jeff Cook (guitar/ fiddle/ keyboard) in 1969. In 1972 the band got a gig playing as the opening act for various other artists at Canyonland Theme Park, however it was not enough to make a living out of, so the three members pursued various other jobs, putting the band on the backburner.
In March 1973 the band decided to pursue music professionally and the trip moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and performed six nights a week at the Bowery. They also took out a loan in order to record and release their own album to sell at their shows, and to send out as demos to labels. In 1977 the band caught a break with GRT Records signing them, but when the label declared bankruptcy after releasing the one record in their contract, the band was also contractually forbidden to record with another label.
It wasn’t until 1979 when the band was able to self-record and release another album entitled “Alabama Band No. 3;” additionally, Mark Herndon stepped in as drummer to replace Rick Scott. They self-promoted their single “I Wanna Come Over” and eventually the band was able to grab the attention of Dallas based label, MDJ Records. Their second single “My House’s In Alabama” was extremely successful as well, reaching mainstream attention reaching the top 20. It also caught the attention of RCA records, with whom they signed a contract with in 1980.
While with RCA, Alabama had the luxury of creative freedom, and was able to tour extensively after the successful release of more singles. Their release of “Mountain Magic” in 1982 was found with HUGE success, going quadruple platinum with over 6 million copies sold, consequently launching the band into super stardom. By January 1986 the band had a number of hits, allowing RCA to release a Greatest Hits compilation.
Despite their albums still reaching gold and silver statuses, and selling millions of copies, the band’s popularity started to decline in the 1990s. Despite the decline, however, the band was still finding continued success with sales of their singles and shows. By May 2002 the band announced a farewell tour, collecting over $15 million in ticket sales alone.
Live reviews
There are many bands who have tried to make music that embodies the sense of a place. Whether it be the West coast of California, central New York or London's east end it is quite a feat to create a sound that sonically represents your surrounding. Alabama were clearly confident in doing this after taking their namesake from their home state way back in 1969.
It is fair to say that the bluegrass rock that the band creates really does seem to embody the oozing melting pot that is the deep south. Having enjoyed commercial and critical success during their heyday, the band continues to tour relentlessly so as to satisfy the huge demand to see the veterans.
Fans old and new gather to enjoy classics such as 'Tennessee River' and 'Song Of The South' performed in the anthemic manner of which is accustomed with Alabama. A wonderful sense of nostalgia prevails throughout and the band performs with skill and determination onstage encouraged by the baying masses. By the final singalong of 'Mountain Music' it is obvious Alabama could hope for better musical representation.
sean-ward
Alabama...no not Alabama Shakes, this is Alabama...just Alabama! But trust me ladies and gentlemen this classic band define Alabama so well. Formed in 1969 this American band are still rocking hard, who says grandads cant rock nowadays... It seems like you guys have been missing a bit of sing-a-long country music because these guys are bac touring again! They reel off some oldtime tunes which will get you into the Southern blues no problem! 'Song of the South' with its timeless guitar riff and sweet soothing vocals which anyone will sing to just 10 seconds of hearing it. Alabama rattle through their anthems with such ease, playing effortlessly it appears. Such feel good vibes from these country Gods, with material such as; 'Mountain Music' and lets not forget the heartbreaking 'American Pride'.
If you love American country music then you cant go wrong with Alabama! These oldies but goldies are worth witnessing live no doubt about it! I love blues music myself, but these guys are literaly swaying me to country music!
LouisAntoniou
Fantastic Venue...little smaller than the big arenas so great seats no matter what. The show was absolutely amazing - they still rock after all these years! Full house and fun crowd ...what a great night! I will definitely be going back to Sioux Falls for more concerts. Even if it’s a 10 hour drive for us it was a true adventure! Would love to see Alabama again and again...we danced the entire show and was not left disappointed. They played all my favourites and more!
muck
Enjoyable. The voice is weakening a bit. I think too much reacting with the crowd. I see it as filler so they can get their breath back. The song choice great and you can never doubt the strength of their legacy. If you are a true Alabama fan you loved it. If you are a music fan and not a loyalist it was just OK.
jim-storsberg
I saw Alabama in 1986 in Sacramento. They were fantastic. I have a pair of Randy Owens red wrist bands. I won't say how I got them!! It was all on the up and up. Alabama is one of the greatest country rock bands ever. Randy you are soooo easy on the eyes!!
carol-tansen
Write your review of Alabama here.. The concert was outstanding. There is a reason Randy (great voice), Teddy (fantastic bassist), Jeff (talented musician) have lasted 40 years. ALABAMA is still a great band. No frills just great music. Thank you!!!
doris-fernandes
We so enjoyed seeing Alabama, they went all the way to make sure we all enjoyed the show. We have listened to Alabama's music for many years, and really hated it when they retired. We hope in the near future they will book more shows.
nanablake
Outstanding show!!! Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry, and Jeff Cook still have it after 40 years. Their harmonies are still rock solid. They truly love their music and their fans. No wonder they are legends.
jalbre_98
Alabama was AWESOME!! They played all my favorites & moved around the stage interacting with the audience!! Perfect!! We even took our 11 year old to see them for her first concert!! Best night!!
aimee-odom
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