Huntsville, Alabama, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Huntsville celebrated the return of drummer Mark Herndon to the stage with country band Alabama at the Orion Amphitheater. This reunion followed years of legal disputes and marked his first performance with the group since their farewell tour. The sold-out crowd of over 8,000 fans brought an electric atmosphere as Herndon joined founding members Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry for the iconic ‘Mountain Music,’ celebrating the band’s legacy and shared history. The event left fans wondering about future collaborations.
Huntsville, Alabama Welcomes Mark Herndon Back to Alabama Stage
On Saturday night, Huntsville’s Orion Amphitheater witnessed a momentous reunion as Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry, founding members of the legendary country band Alabama, were joined on stage by former drummer Mark Herndon. This surprise appearance marked Herndon’s first performance with the band since their farewell tour in the 2003-2004 season.
Herndon’s return was during Alabama’s classic tune “Mountain Music,” which brought an electrifying energy to the sold-out crowd of over 8,000 fans, many of whom have cherished the band’s music for decades. Owen, now 75, kept the audience engaged and entertained, adding to the nostalgia of the evening.
A Reunion Years in the Making
The long-anticipated reunion came after years of legal disputes between Herndon and the members of Alabama. In 2008, the band claimed overpayments of $200,000 from Herndon stemming from the farewell tour, but the courts ruled in Herndon’s favor. Despite these underlying tensions, Gentry described the reunion as feeling “divinely timed,” expressing a childlike excitement about the special moment.
Before the show, Herndon attended the concert incognito, watching from the side stage for over 90 minutes before making his much-anticipated appearance during the encore. He was dressed casually in sunglasses, a headband, a cutoff black T-shirt, and khaki shorts, evoking memories of his time as a touring drummer for the band, which he joined late in the 1970s and remained with until 2004. However, due to Alabama’s business structure, he was not officially designated as a band member.
Significance of the Performance
Herndon’s inclusion for “Mountain Music” brought an atmosphere of celebration as he joined Owen and Gentry on stage for a final bow, commemorating their shared history and musical journey. Even backstage, crew members acknowledged the importance of this reunion, which captured the hearts of not just the fans present but also those who have followed Alabama’s storied career.
In a touching prelude to the concert, Gentry and Herndon had met for lunch two weeks earlier, where the invitation to join the performance was extended. Since his departure from Alabama, Herndon has been involved in music on his terms, working with artists such as singer/songwriter Leah Seawright. Notably, in 2019, Herndon was recognized with Alabama upon their induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, emphasizing his lasting connection to the band, despite having been embroiled in past disputes.
A Celebration of Country Music History
The reunion of Herndon with Alabama serves as a poignant reminder of the band’s legacy within country music, with fans reminiscing about the early days that defined their sound. The event underscored not only the enduring love for the music but also the personal journeys that each member has taken over the years.
Looking Ahead
With Herndon’s unexpected return to the stage, fans are left to wonder whether this reunion may spark further collaborations or performances in the future. The energy in Orion Amphitheater was palpable, and there was a shared sense of joy and nostalgia that filled the venue long after the final bow. This reunion was not merely a performance; it was a celebration of legacy, friendship, and the timeless impact of Alabama’s music.
FAQ Section
Why was Mark Herndon’s return to the stage significant?
Mark Herndon’s return to the stage with Alabama after nearly two decades symbolizes a reconciliation between him and the band, evoking nostalgia among fans and recognizing his contributions.
What past disputes existed between Mark Herndon and Alabama?
Mark Herndon was involved in legal disputes with Alabama, including a 2008 lawsuit where the band claimed overpayments which the court ruled in Herndon’s favor.
How did the audience react to the reunion at the concert?
The audience, consisting of over 8,000 fans, was highly enthusiastic, creating an electric atmosphere during the performance of classic hits.
The remarkable event at Orion Amphitheater highlights both the perseverance of personal relationships and the enduring legacy of Alabama’s music, proving that sometimes, reunions can indeed be sweet.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- People: Alabama Reunion with Mark Herndon
- Wikipedia: Alabama (band)
- AL.com: Alabama Band Reunion
- Google Search: Alabama country music
- The Bama Buzz: August Concerts in Alabama
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Country Music
- WHNT: Wishstock Benefit Concert
- Google News: Alabama music news
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
