Alabama

Alabama is a country music band from Fort Payne, Alabama that was started in 1969 but did not get a recording contract until 1977. Alabama began by singing for tips around Myrtle Beach before going on to sell millions of records. They were among the first successful country groups since the mid-1970s, thanks to their blend of contemporary and traditional country and southern rock. On July 4-93 they opened a $7-million, 2,200-seat theater, located in Barefoot Landing-Myrtle Beach South Carolina. The members of Alabama are: - Randy Owen (vocals and rhythm guitar) - Teddy Gentry, (vocals and bass guitar) - Jeff Cook (lead guitar, keyboards, bass guitar, fiddle, banjo, and mandolin) - Mark Herndon (drums and percussion) Along with the Oak Ridge Boys and the Statler Brothers, Alabama is recognized as having paved the way for today's top country groups, including Diamond Rio, Lonestar and Rascal Flatts.