Ronnie McDowell is returning to the Historic Roxy Theatre Saturday after missing out on 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

McDowell typically performs at the Roxy every year for his birthday in March, but he said he could not wait another full year to perform – which resulted in this year’s June performance.

“I think this will be the first time I’m performing there when it isn’t for my birthday,” McDowell said. “I love the Roxy and couldn’t wait to get back on that stage.”

McDowell’s annual concert was scheduled for this past year; it was rescheduled  several times because of COVID-19 until organizers ultimately decided to cancel the 2020 show.

“We are so excited to finally get to have him back,” said Wanda Myrick, who is responsible for organizing the event each year. “He is such a great performer, with a group of people in Russellville who love watching him play.”

McDowell said he will be showcasing one of his new songs at the show, as well as old favorites.

The show will begin at 7 p.m.

To kick off, Joseph Baldwin and Jonathan Len will present the pre-show entertainment. They are well known for their musical talents.

Baldwin was winner of the Alabama Tourism Department’s Alabama Year of Music Songwriters Contest. He has performed at various festivals throughout Alabama and surrounding states.  A native of Vina, Baldwin serves as one of Franklin County’s commissioners.

Len, a native of Paducah, Ky., has always loved music. He was first a member of the Blend Quartet.

In 2013, while they were attending the Ohio Fair Managers’ Association Convention, Len introduced himself to Ronnie McDowell, and when they later ran into McDowell quietly singing “Only You” to himself, the four doo-wop-loving vocalists jumped in and joined him on harmony. A few months later they were on stage with McDowell, signed on as his backup singers for his tour as well as an upcoming recording session in Music City.

Since then Len has concentrated on his own musical path, releasing several singles, including “You Will Never Leave My Mind.” He is exclusively premiering his music video for his latest single, “A Woman Like That,” with The Country Note.

Myrick said tickets are still available for purchase. Reserved seating tickets are $30/$25/$20, and balcony seating is $15. Call 256-415-3270 or 256-332-3270 for ticket purchase or information or visit eventbrite.com. The concert benefits the Historic Roxy Theatre.