FLORENCE — On May 27, 2026, the Renaissance Shoals Ballroom will host what is
expected to be the biggest concert event of the year as 9-time Grammy Award winner and
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Buddy Guy headlines an extraordinary evening of
music and recognition.
As part of the event, Buddy Guy will be presented with the prestigious John Lewis Civil
Rights Award for Contributions Through Music, honoring his lifelong impact as a trailblazer
whose music has helped shape generations and inspire cultural change.
The award carries historic significance, having only been presented once before—to
Congressman John Lewis himself—making this only the second presentation in its history.
Presented with the support of the State of Alabama and awarded by members of the Lewis
family, the honor recognizes Buddy Guy’s extraordinary legacy not only as one of the most
influential blues musicians of all time, but also as an artist whose work reflects the enduring
spirit of resilience, justice, and cultural progress.
The evening’s concert will feature an all-star lineup including the Blind Boys of Alabama,
Robert Randolph, John Paul White, Stanley Simmons, Chanel Haynes and Tom Hambridge,
creating a once-in-a-generation musical experience in the heart of the Shoals.
This is more than a concert—it is a landmark cultural event. To honor Buddy Guy with an
award of this magnitude while bringing together such an extraordinary group of artists
makes this a truly historic night for Florence, for Alabama, and for music fans everywhere.
The event will be professionally filmed by Big River Broadcasting for future public
broadcast, further extending the reach and significance of the evening.
Event Details
Buddy Guy: John Lewis Civil Rights Award Concert
Date: May 27, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Venue: Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa Ballroom
Location: Florence, Alabama
Tickets are available now via Eventbrite and through buddyguy.net.
Media Release/Charles Holloman
