ANNA MARIA –The Atlanta Rhythm Section brought its classic southern rock sound to a sold-out crowd at The Center of Anna Maria Island on Saturday, Feb. 14.
Formed in 1970 in Doraville, Georgia, the Atlanta Rhythm Section has been part of the southern rock scene for more than 50 years and the band has released 16 albums.
The evening opened with Nashville-based solo artist Bella Garland. The up-and-coming performer played keyboards and guitar and delivered a soft opening set that spanned pop, country and folk.
The Atlanta Rhythm Section’s current lineup features original lead vocalist Rodney Justo, guitarist and vocalist Dave Anderson, keyboardist Lee Shealy, guitarist Steve Stone, bassist Justin Senker and drummer Rodger Stephens.
Justo sang lead vocals on the band’s 1972 debut album, “Atlanta Rhythm Section” but left the band before the release of their second album, “Back Up Against the Wall,” which was the band’s first album to feature Ronnie Hammond on lead vocals. Justo returned to the band in 2011.
The Atlanta Rhythm Section kicked off their Valentine’s Day concert with “Homesick” and followed with a steady stream of well-known songs, that included “Champagne Jam,” “Spooky,” which was originally recorded by the Classics IV, “Large Time,” “I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight,” “Jukin’” and their signature songs and biggest hits, “So Into You” and “Imaginary Lover.” The show ended with, “Back Up Against the Wall.”
Throughout the night, Anderson and Stone delivered extended guitar solos that brought the audience to its feet.
After the show, Justo, 81, reflected on his longevity when asked what keeps him going.
“Unless I am beat down where I can’t get up, I keep going,” he said.
The concert was sponsored by the Sandbar restaurant and the Cedar Cove Resort and the concert proceeds benefit The Center’s youth programs.
Chris Culhane, executive director of The Center, expressed his gratitude for the strong turnout and the community support.
“We are very overwhelmed by the sold-out concert and have tons of gratitude toward the performers for what they give of themselves to help The Center,” Culhane said. “We look forward to future events.”
The bar concessions were provided by Sandbar Seafood & Spirits, with food offerings by Poppo’s Taqueria.
The Atlanta Rhythm Section performance was part of the Bradenton Gulf Islands Concert Series.
The Center and the concert series will present John Oates and The Good Road Band on Sunday, March 1. Tickets are available at The Center website.
