Brantley Gilbert to perform at Jarrard Foundation concert

GAINESVILLE - The Brantley Gilbert Band will be featured in the John Jarrard Foundation's Spring Concert, Saturday, May 16.

Jefferson native, singer/songwriter Brantley Gilbert will perform at the Brenau Amphitheatre, located at the corner of Washington and Prior Streets in Gainesville. The opening act will be Allen Nivens.

"The band is phenomenal," said Foundation executive director Jody Jackson. "Brantley's lyrics are all about life in this area. We're very fortunate to not only have this kind of talent in our home area, but we're also fortunate to be able to get the band here during a heavy touring schedule."

The Band's first complete album, "A Modern Day Prodigal Son," includes hit singles such as "G.R.I.T.S." and "Whenever We're Alone."

Tickets for the May 16 event are available online at www.johnjarrardconcert.com or by calling 615-390-5118. For sponsorship information, call 770-540-3935. Gates open at 6:30. Music starts at 7:30. Small coolers allowed. Tickets are $15 each. All seats are general admission. Chairs and blankets permitted.

The John Jarrard Foundation has planned three concerts this year, a departure from the single concert that since its inception has been held in the late summer or early fall. Details of a summer concert are currently being developed, with dates to be announced. The main benefit concert is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 24, and, instead of being at the Arts Council Depot as it has in past years, will be at the Brenau Amphitheatre. Performers for the September concert will be announced this summer.

Proceeds from the concerts benefit a number of Gainesville area charities. The concerts are held in memory of country music songwriter John Jarrard, a Gainesville native who died several years ago following a long bout with leukemia.