The 17th June Jam, held in Fort Payne, Alabama on June 3, 2023, was a historic and emotional comeback for the beloved country music festival founded by the band Alabama. The event was featured in a special News 19 segment on May 26, 2023, offering a preview of what fans could expect — and it didn’t disappoint.
🎶 A Star-Studded Return After 26 Years
After a 26-year hiatus, June Jam returned with massive energy, heart, and purpose. It featured a lineup packed with legendary country acts, including:
Alabama
Jamey Johnson
Jake Owen
The Oak Ridge Boys
Chapel Hart
The Isaacs
Mark Wills
Exile
Neal McCoy
Dailey & Vincent
Home Free
The Malpass Brothers
Randy Travis (special appearance)
The event was hosted by Storme Warren, known for his work with SiriusXM’s The Highway, adding star power and fun to the festival atmosphere.
💔 A Tribute to Jeff Cook
One of the most moving moments of the 2023 June Jam was the Celebration of Life for Jeff Cook, Alabama’s co-founder and guitarist, who passed away in 2022. The tribute brought fans and fellow musicians together to honor his legacy and lasting impact on music.
🎉 Fan Appreciation Week Events
Leading up to the main concert, Fan Appreciation Week included:
Teddy Gentry’s Singing with the Stars Talent Contest
A Jeff & Lisa Cook Foundation brunch at Cook Castle
A Songwriters Showcase
Teddy Gentry’s Coin Show at the Alabama Fan Club & Museum
These community-driven events reflected the band’s ongoing commitment to Fort Payne and its fans.
📺 News 19 Coverage
The May 26, 2023 feature on WHNT News 19 gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at preparations, artist interviews, and reflections from the Alabama band members. It captured the anticipation and excitement leading up to one of country music’s most heartfelt homecomings.
📺 Watch the full News 19 coverage here:
🔗 17th June Jam in Fort Payne – YouTube
✨ Legacy and Looking Ahead
While June Jam 2023 was a tremendous success, it was later announced that June Jam would not return in 2025, as the band takes a break from organizing the large-scale event. Still, fans remain hopeful for future editions.
June Jam 2023 wasn’t just a concert — it was a celebration of family, community, and the enduring power of music born in Alabama.