Country music legends to headline new festival in Alabama: ‘We uplift people’
The beloved vocal group is known for hits such as "Elvira," "Bobbie Sue," "I'll Be True to You" and more.
Liam Carter 
Birmingham is preparing for a massive new musical event this summer as the Oak Ridge Boys bring their legendary sound to the heart of the city. The iconic vocal group is set to headline the inaugural Field & Stage Music Fest, a high-energy three-day concert series hosted at the Legacy Arena at the BJCC.
A New Festival Tradition
Running from July 17-19, this festival serves as the official nighttime companion to the World Deer Expo. While attendees spend their days exploring hunting and fishing gear, guest speakers, and vendor exhibits at the BJCC Exhibition Halls, the evenings will shift to the 17,000-seat Legacy Arena for premier performances.
The Lineup
The weekend kicks off on Friday, July 17, with the Oak Ridge Boys. They will be followed on Saturday, July 18, by ACM winner Jake Owen, and the Eli Young Band will close out the festival on Sunday, July 19. Organizers note that doors will open nightly at 6:30 p.m., with music starting at 7:30 p.m. Additional acts are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Ticket Details
Tickets are currently available via Ticketmaster, with daily pricing set between $97.65 and $121.35. Each concert ticket includes two complimentary passes to the World Deer Expo, as detailed on the Expo’s website.
Celebrating Country Music History
For fans, the Oak Ridge Boys represent a storied tradition dating back to the 1940s. With more than 60 studio albums and 17 No. 1 hits, including classics like “Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” and “I’ll Be True to You,” the group remains a powerhouse in the industry. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, they have secured five Grammy Awards and multiple Grand Ole Opry inductions.
The current lineup features Alabama native William Lee Golden alongside Duane Allen, Richard Sterban, and Ben James, who joined following the death of longtime tenor Joe Bonsall in 2024.
In a 2020 interview, Bonsall summarized the group's mission: “I believe we uplift people with a good, clean, wholesome American show. We’re good at singing about love and positive vibes.” Beyond their Birmingham appearance, the group continues their tour schedule this year, including upcoming stops at the Opry 100 centennial celebration.
