Fourth Annual Bill Withers Festival heats up Downtown Beckley

BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – It was all sunny skies on Saturday as residents made their way to the Beckley Intermodal Gateway to celebrate the legacy of singer/songwriter Bill Withers .

A variety of food and merchandise vendors were on hand for the Fourth Annual Bill Withers Festival, which is held each year to honor the Grammy Award-winning Raleigh County native. Participating vendors included Beni Holiday Art, Upland Soul, National Coal Heritage Area, Hilltop Coffee, and many others.

Along with the multiple vendors who braved the heat for the annual event, guests were entertained by on-site activities such as cornhole and a kids’ bounce house.

Naturally, live music was an integral part of the proceedings, with entertainment provided by local acts such as Untrained Professionals, New Gospel Singaleers, New Hope Baptist Youth, HGTA Theatre Group, Aristotle Jones, Creek Don’t Rise, Lady D & Mi$$ion, and Jim Snyder.

Performers presented original music as well as unique renditions of timeless Bill Withers tunes, while taking time to express the great significance of Withers’ music in their own lives.

Born in the Slab Fork area of Raleigh County, Bill Withers made a name for himself through endearing hits such as “Grandma’s Hands,” “Just the Two of Us,” and “Ain’t No Sunshine,” to name just a few.

For more information on the City of Beckley’s efforts to honor the legendary singer/songwriter, visit the Beckley Events website.