Alabama native and season 5 American Idol winner Taylor Hicks will return home August 31 for a free concert on Lake Martin. The show, part of his “Roadhouse Ramble” series, begins at 6 p.m. at The Landing at Parker Creek.
Hicks, who grew up spending summers on Lake Martin, said performing there carries special meaning. “I grew up on Lake Martin, I love it,” he said.
The Birmingham singer gained national fame as the Season 5 champion of American Idol, but he’s quick to remind fans that his roots run deep in Alabama. Before his 2006 platinum debut album, Hicks spent years playing coastal venues and clubs across the state. “I look at it as a 12-year overnight success story,” he told WSFA.
“I spent a lot of years traveling, playing shows at the Flora-Bama, out on the coast, and around Lake Martin.”
Hicks said fans can expect a high-energy performance. “Expect a really great live show,” he said. “I call it the roadhouse ramble… the sun will be setting, and the weather will be great.”
After following up his debut with a 2009 album, Hicks stepped away from the spotlight for several years before returning in 2023 with his single “Portch Swing.” He credits legends like Bob Seger and Van Morrison for shaping his soulful style.
According to the Chicago Music Guide, the concert is presented as a gift to Alabama fans who have supported Hicks since his early days on stage.
Fans can enjoy the lakeside sunset and Hicks’ signature sound when the free Labor Day weekend show kicks off on August 31.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
