The town of Florence, Alabama, is honoring its native son, the late legendary music producer Sam Phillips, with a multi-day Sam Phillips Music Celebration, running through Saturday.
Phillips, who put Elvis on the map, was born in Florence, on January 5, 1923. The event, now in its third year, examines the area’s influence on his work.
Wednesday kicked off the Sam Phillips Music Celebration with a birthday party and a screening of the Sam Phillips A&E biography. There was also a panel, which included author Peter Guralnick and others.
The event continues through Saturday with several concerts, including a sold-out show on Saturday featuring headliner Jason D. Williams.