While country music went through some changes over the years, bands like Alabama appeared to always embrace the past. With nothing more than a love for genres like country, folk, and bluegrass, Rady Owen and Teddy Gentry created the iconic group Alabama. Eventually joined by Jeff Cook, the three quickly captured the heart of country music. The next several decades brought Alabama mountains of success and hit songs. Although wanting to honor the group on CMT Giants, Alabama couldn’t stay off the stage as they performed hit songs like “Mountain Music.”
Throughout the special tribute, Owen and Gentry watched as singers like Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Little Big Town, and Riley Green proved just how much of an impact Alabama had on them and the music industry. But like any performer, Alabama itched to get to the stage to prove why they are a pillar in country music.
Videos by American Songwriter
Listeners couldn’t get enough of the performance, with fans rushing to the comment section to shower the legendary band with praise. “They still got it after all these years,” one user noted. “The absolute best country band ever! 50 years and still rockin and bringing crowds to their feet! You definitely have “the touch”! Love you Randy & Teddy,” another fan wrote.
[RELATED: Exclusive: Alabama Reflects on “Emotional” Nashville Show, Changes Lyrics To Reflect Jeff Cook’s Passing]
Alabama Tribute Not Complete Without Jeff Cook
Performing “Mountain Music”, fans loved watching the band on stage. Comments included, “The absolute best country band ever! 50 years and still rockin’ and bringing crowds to their feet! You definitely have ‘the touch’! Love you Randy & Teddy.” One person added, “Alabama has been my favorite country music artist since the 80’s my favorites are Dixie land delight, Lady down on Love, always thought Randy Owens was so handsome.”
Although CMT Giants celebrated Alabama with a heartfelt tribute, the band still remembered Cook. While struggling with Parkinson’s disease for several years, Cook eventually lost his battle in November 2022. At the time of his passing, Owen wrote, “He lived to play our music we created together. He could play any instrument he chose, but his harmonies I’ll miss the most. I’m thankful we got to create music together for over 50 years! Wish we could play ‘My Home’s in Alabama’ one more time.”
Always going to miss Cook, Owen continued, “I’m hurt in a way I can’t describe! To Lisa, thanks for loving him and being there for him to the end. Play on, Jeff. Love you!”
(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for CMT)
Most Popular
Comments / 0