Staff Reports
FORT PAYNE — Members of Boys in the Band recently stopped by The Alabama Fan Club to present a donation to Greg Fowler for the Alabama June Jam Foundation, continuing the group’s long-standing commitment to giving back to their hometown.
Michael Weatherly of Boys in the Band said the visit was another opportunity to thank the Fort Payne community for years of encouragement and support.
“We have felt so much love from Fort Payne, its numerous businesses and individuals, and even the original boys in the band, Alabama,” Weatherly said.
Formed in 2019, Boys in the Band began as a one-time hometown benefit show honoring the group Alabama while raising funds for local organizations. The event quickly grew into an annual tradition and eventually expanded into a touring tribute act. In 2024, the band performed 44 shows across 12 states before returning to Fort Payne for its seventh annual hometown performance, which now benefits the Alabama June Jam Foundation.
Weatherly credited Divided Sky Entertainment LLC and Michael Krejci for helping bring the group to a wider audience through touring opportunities, while noting that Fort Payne remains the heart of the project.
The band expressed appreciation to the City of Fort Payne and Mayor Brian Baine for welcoming the group to the DeKalb Theatre each December, as well as to the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce for providing hospitality support. Local businesses and individuals, including Eddie and Nikki Smith, Tim and Johnna Harris, Roadside ‘Que and Inkpressive Creations, were also recognized for their continued contributions.
Greg Fowler, a longtime supporter of the group and representative of the Alabama June Jam Foundation, has regularly attended the hometown shows and shared information about the foundation’s work in the community.
The group has shared the stage with members of Alabama — Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry and Jeff Cook — during past performances, experiences Weatherly described as lasting memories. The band has also been joined by guest musicians and longtime friends over the years, including family members of late original bandmate Marcus Mullins.
Weatherly said the project would not be possible without the dedication of current and former band members, volunteers, families and loyal fans, some of whom have attended dozens of performances.
“The group Alabama helped put Fort Payne on the map, and their legacy is forever,” Weatherly said. “It is a true honor to share the music of our heroes with all of you.”
The band closed its message by wishing the Fort Payne community a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
