If music is the food of love, play on. Nestled in the heart of North Alabama, Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater (SMPA) in Albertville, AL invites music lovers, event organizers, and concert enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a world of rhythm, melody, and unforgettable live experiences.
As the latest destination for top-tier performances and community gatherings, this venue has quickly become a beacon for those seeking spectacular entertainment set against a backdrop of beautiful landscapes and state-of-the-art facilities. With meticulous attention to detail in its architectural design and world-class amenities, the Amphitheater has drawn music aficionados from near and far. Its spectacular stage is adorned with LED video walls and surrounded by a bevy of seating options to host 6,000+ attendees.
The Goo Goo Dolls’ “Big Night Out Tour,” comedian Gabriel Iglesias, Brantley Gilbert, Nelly, Casting Crowns, 3 Doors Down, Parker McCollum, and Skillet are just a few names that have graced the stage. When it comes to music, Albertville is a name to reckon with.
This year’s Super Bowl performer Ludacris, AMC Award winner Cole Swindell, Grammy Award winners Old Crow Medicine Show, Molly Tuttle & Gloden Highway, rock legends Scott Stapp of CREED, George Thorogood & 38 Special are just a few names who will take the stage in Albertville, AL.
2024: Crafting an Unforgettable Symphony
“One of our key focuses is bringing genres of music that attract all parts of the community,” said Patrick O’Brien, previous General Manager of SMPA, now a vice president of venue management at The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC). “That is really important to us, and it is something we have delivered on and will continue to deliver on this season and in the future.”
2024’s eclectic lineup does just that. From the high-energy beats of hip-hop, from electrifying rock to soothing indie, the Amphitheater’s dynamic offering ensures a concert for everyone.
Old Crow Medicine Show on April 26th
Since getting their start busking on street corners back in 1998, Old Crow Medicine Show has emerged as one of the most potent and influential forces in American roots music. They’ve toured with the likes of Willie Nelson and John Prine, all while amassing an acclaimed catalog that includes such standouts as their double platinum hit single “Wagon Wheel.” Over the last quarter-century, the two-time Grammy Award-winning band has brought their sublimely raucous live show to rapturous audiences around the world, and their next stop is Sand Mountain Amphitheater.
George Thorogood & The Destroyers and 38 Special on May 3rd
Thorogood started out as a solo acoustic performer, inspired by John P. Hammond before he started his own band in 1973 the Delaware Destroyers. “People may love our records, but our live performances leave the ultimate impression,” says Thorogood. The band also has a partnership with The Leukemia Lymphoma Society and are collaborating with the Musically Fed to feed veterans, the homeless, and the food insecure nationwide. A portion of this “50 Years of Rock Tour” will also benefit the Marla Thorogood Memorial Fund For Ovarian Cancer research, in memory of Thorogood’s late wife who passed in 2019.
Memorial Day Weekend with Cole Swindell on May 26th
American country music singer/songwriter Cole Swindell has written singles for Craig Campbell, Thomas Rhett, Scotty McCreery, and Luke Bryan, and has released four albums for Warner Bros. Records Nashville. Celebrate a patriotic Memorial Day weekend with live country music at Sand Mountain Amphitheater!
Tacos and Tequila with a Twist of Hip-Hop on June 8th
When the beats drop and the aroma of tacos fills the air, you know it’s time for “Tacos and Tequila.” This musical fiesta features a stellar lineup, including Ludacris, Sean Kingston, and Twista, bringing their unique blend of infectious hooks and lyrical prowess to the heart of Alabama. The event is a perfect blend of cultural celebration and hip-hop extravagance.
Soul-Stirring Anthems with Scott Stapp and Hinder on June 28th
Prepare for an evening of anthemic rock as Scott Stapp, the legendary Creed front man, takes the stage on his “Higher Power” Tour alongside the raw energy of Hinder. Fans can expect a night filled with powerful vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and sing-along hits that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Make More Memories Music Fest on July 20th
Join Boys Like Girls, 3OH!3, Anberlin, and The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus as they unite for the “Make More Memories” Music Fest. This is a dream come true for anyone who’s ever had their heartstrings tugged by emo anthems or danced to high-energy pop-punk hits.
Feel-Good Vibes at 311’s The Unity Tour on August 15th
Special guests AWOLNATION and Neon Trees support 311’s intoxicating fusion of rock, reggae, and funk. The band was formed in 1990 by five friends in Omaha, Nebraska, and 31 years later, they’re still rocking together. Widely regarded as one of the most entertaining and dynamic live bands in the U.S., 311 is one of the longest-running original lineups in rock, alongside legends like U2 and Radiohead.
The Heartbeat of a Home-Grown Rhythm
Albertville’s musical roots run deep. The city has been home to several notable music groups and artists, such as the legendary local band WARM which garnered national attention and toured the country. The Johnson Family Band, another significant part of Albertville’s musical heritage, provided music around Sand Mountain from the 1880s until the mid to late 1960s.
Sand Mountain Amphitheater aims to pay homage to the community’s passion for the arts. In its fourth season, the venue’s pulse is stronger than ever. Having hosted multiple concerts with thousands of attendees, the overall ticket sales volume has improved each season, highlighting the Amphitheater’s commitment to excellence.
“The community’s enthusiastic response has been tremendous,” said SMPA’s General Manager Brent Boatwright. “We have customers within the City of Albertville who attend every concert we put on throughout the season!”
But building a facility of this caliber in a smaller market, such as Albertville, did not come without its concerns. Despite facing skepticism and hurdles during the construction to grand opening days, particularly regarding a still looming pandemic, competition from larger cities like Huntsville and Birmingham venues, as well as the Albertville market being within easy reach of Chattanooga, Tuscaloosa, Nashville, and Atlanta, Mayor Tracy Honea says city leaders remained steadfast in their vision.
“We were determined to carve out our niche in the industry by offering a distinctive and community-oriented experience that, we hope, sets us apart,” said Honea. “While the journey has been challenging and there’s still work to be done in terms of raising awareness, the rewards thus far have made every effort worthwhile. Heading into season four, I’m as encouraged and excited for what’s ahead as I’ve been since day one.”
In harmony with the music, concerts are about the communal spirit, shared experiences, and unforgettable memories. With this understanding, Sand Mountain Amphitheater commits to significantly improving the guest experience each season. O’Brien adds, “A constant focus on listening to our guests and implementing improvements that provide the best possible concert atmosphere, such as wider concourses, has helped us grow year-over-year.”
The Economic Harmonies of Concerts
Beyond the sounds and the sights, the Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater serves as a catalyst for economic growth. Its ability to draw visitors from near and far has ripple effects that extend to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.
“We see a lot of concert guests coming to shows from out of town,” says Boatwright. “They are getting hotel rooms, dining, and shopping in the City of Albertville and Marshall County, which significantly helps boost our economy.” The surge of visitors results in increased spending, job creation, and a thriving tourism industry that paints a rosy picture for the region’s financial landscape.
The Prelude to an Unforgettable Season
“It is important to the city of Albertville and the Sand Mountain Amphitheater team that we positively impact as many people within the Sand Mountain region through first-class concerts and events,” says O’Brien. “Looking ahead, we will continue elevating the ticket buyer experience, creating artist lineups with an excellent variety across multiple genres, and expanding the impact at one of the best outdoor music venues in the entire country.”
In a world where music serves as a universal language that knows no boundaries, the curtain is about to rise on a show like no other. Sand Mountain Amphitheater’s 2024 concert season is about to begin and promises to be an unforgettable journey for all.
