‘Bama Founders & Legends Series Mondays thru March 13

‘Bama Founders & Legends Series Mondays thru March 13
Noon (free) shows will give Snowbirds glimpse of the way it was

Flora-Bama founder and co-owner Joe Gilchrist has organized a series of Monday afternoon (noon ‘til 3:30 p.m.) shows at the lounge on the Al-Fl state line to expose visiting snowbirds to the musicians that helped him build the local institution into the world renowned roadhouse that it is today.
There is no cover charge for the shows, and each of the headliners Gilchrist has booked will probably bring old musician friends with them.
“It’s sad that a lot of the Snowbirds that used to come here 20 years ago to see their favorites when they were in their 70’s are gone now,’’ Gilchrist said. “I know I’ve lost all kinds of friends.’’
The legends series includes the March 6 return of Ken Lambert, the first possible-probable musician to ever play at the Flora-Bama. J Hawkins, who along with Jimmy Louis, shared the ‘Bama stage with Lambert during the late 1970’s, is scheduled to play on Feb. 6.
“It’s a way for us to show respect for the old players who have helped us and also give our Snowbird supporters a feel the old times,’’ Gilchrist said.
Lambert played at the Flora-Bama for over 25 years and has cuts by Alabama and Mel Tillis on his vast resume of original tunes. He still lives in Magnolia Springs with his wife of 30 years, Cindy.
The Founders & Legends line-up: Feb. 6 – J. Hawkins & Friends; Feb. 13 – Donna Slater (founder of Jezebel’s Chillin), Larry T. Wilson & Friends; Feb. 20 – Gove Scrivenor & Friends; Feb. 27 – Rick Whaley & Friends; March 6 – Ken Lambert & Friends; March 13 – Wrap up Jam.
Gilchrist said the “possible-probables’’ joining the headlining legends will include the likes of LeaAnn Creswell, John Joiner, Ray Smith, Darrell Roberts, Cathy Pace, Nick Branch.
The Flora-Bama is located on Perdido Key Dr. directly on the Gulf of Mexico at the Florida-Alabama border. Pictured: Ken Lambert