FLORENCE-To celebrate the international success of the critically acclaimed “Muscle Shoals” documentary, Florence-Lauderdale Tourism is hosting a one-of-a-kind music tour on Saturday, May 4, from 1-5 p.m. The funk-filled tour will begin at Swampers Bar and Grille at the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa.
Participants will board the new Florence trolley and “Swampette” Judy Hood will guide the group
Swampette Judy Hood
through the W.C. Handy Home, FAME Studio and 3614 Jackson Highway. The trolley will also make stops at the historical marker commemorating Sam Phillips and the impressive Singing River Sculpture in downtown Sheffield.
“Having been married to Swamper David Hood for a quarter of a century, I’ve been blessed to witness, first-hand, some stunning moments in Muscle Shoals music history, said Hood. “This tour 
is about paying tribute to the diverse group of legendary performers and musicians that created the signature sound.
“From the birthplace of W.C. Handy to the legendary studios that gave birth to some of the finest
music the world has ever known, we’ve got a lot to celebrate – and that’s exactly what we’ll do next Saturday. Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding, Paul Simon, The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart and scores of others recorded hit after hit in the same studios where we’ll be hanging out on this tour.”
Debbie Wilson, executive director for Florence-Lauderdale Tourism, said the documentary “ignited a spark” that has 
focused an international spotlight on the area’s natural beauty and rich musical heritage. “It seemed fitting for us to host a tour specifically dedicated to the past, present and future of Muscle Shoals music.”
The tour group will return to Swampers just in time for happy hour and a performance by Muscle Shoals singer/songwriter duo James LeBlanc and Angela Hacker. Tickets, which include the trolley ride and entrance fees to the studios, are $35 and can be purchased at the Florence-Lauderdale Tourism office at One Hightower Place in Florence at the Renaissance Tower. For information call 256-740-4141 or visit www.visitflorenceal.com
