PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa
Contact: Nicholas J. Finch
pr@tuscarts.org
205-758-5195, x6
Genuine Elvis Concert and Book Signing Brings Comes to the Bama Theatre Feb. 13
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Elvis Presley’s legacy comes alive for one unforgettable evening when The Genuine Elvis Concert
arrives at the Historic Bama Theatre on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026.
The evening begins with a meet-and-greet and book signing from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., featuring the Genuine Elvis Special
Edition book co-authors Edie Hand and Ronnie McDowell. During the meet and greet, McDowell will also have a limited
selection of his original Elvis art prints available, while special guest Billy Blackwood will offer his book exploring Elvis’
gospel music legacy.
At 7 p.m., the event continues with a live concert by Ronnie McDowell and his band, running until 9 p.m. The concert
brings Elvis stories to life through music and personal memories shared by those who knew him best. Blackwood is set to
perform some classic Elvis gospel tunes during the concert.
Hand, Elvis’ cousin, offers a rare perspective on the man behind the legend. Her grandmother and Elvis’ grandmother
were sisters, and she grew up around Elvis and the women who helped shape his life and career. Hand is widely known
for her candid, heartfelt, and often humorous stories that provide fans an intimate look at Elvis away from the spotlight.
McDowell, known as “the voice of Elvis,” is one of country music’s most enduring vocalists, with a career spanning more
than five decades and more than 50 charting singles. His 1977 tribute, “The King Is Gone,” became an international hit
following Presley’s death. During the concert, McDowell will perform Elvis favorites along with his own hits, including
“Older Women.”
The evening also features special appearances by musicians closely connected to Elvis’ musical legacy, including Billy
Blackwood, one of Elvis’ drummers; John Briggs; and David Briggs, Elvis’ longtime studio pianist, and music arranger.
The event is co-hosted by Steve & DC Morning Show of Townsquare Media and Edie Hand.
Elvis fans traveling to Tuscaloosa can take advantage of a special $129 rate at Homewood Suites, located at 2451 Jack
Warner Parkway West. Rooms may be booked at tuscaloosadowntown.homewoodsuites.com.
This is a one-night-only experience, and signed copies of Genuine Elvis book will be limited. Fans are encouraged to
preorder the book when purchasing tickets for this incredible evening.
Fans are invited to grab their blue suede shoes and celebrate Elvis in true rock ’n’ roll style.
For tickets and more information, visit tuscarts.org.
The Historic Bama Theatre is located at 600 Greensboro Avenue in downtown Tuscaloosa. For more
information about The Arts Council or Bama Theatre, patrons should follow and like “The Arts Council – Bama Theatre –
Cultural Arts Center” on Facebook and Twitter and also Instagram @tuscaloosaartscouncil. Call 205-758-5195 or visit
tuscarts.org for further information.