Le monde oting that an agent from William Morris is also in the audience on the final night of the contest, Rendy says, “I love original music and performance, and the ability to give new artists an opportunity.” Exposure from competing and winning the Pepsi Southern Original has enabled several to build a touring career and open for big names.
“What’s most gratifying for me is to sit and watch people enjoying themselves, and seeing the sponsors realize they got their money’s worth,” says Dave. He and his wife, Stacy, love having their young daughters join them, especially since “drunken buffoonery,” as Dave puts it, isn’t tolerated. Besides, there’s so much more to do. “From the moment you walk inside, it’s a fan experience with giveaways, contests, and food and drink vendors,” Dave states. “We encourage the sponsors to do something to interact with fans, get them involved.” Cornhole is a popular game, as are prizes like beach cruisers and trips. The congenial atmosphere also entices artists to engage with fans. Rendy recalls seeing Brantley Gilbert, who performed in 2013, take off on his motorcycle and return with thirty others on their bikes. Blake Shelton, featured in 2014, called over a group of kids to join him in basketball. Rendy says, “Blake was so blown away by the energy and size of the crowd that he told me, ‘This is the best damn little festival that I’ve been to in my life!’” With nearly twenty hit singles, including “Awful, Beautiful Life,” “Have You Forgotten?,” and “I Miss My Friend,” Darryl Worley agrees. “I love the area,” he declares, “and it’s the coolest festival I play in this part of the country. It’s just a joy.” Having appeared in Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam’s lineup every year except 2014, Darryl adds, “It’s kind of like a reunion. Rendy and I have worked together for years, and I helped get the festival started. I usually set the weekend aside to help entertain the investors and judge the Pepsi Southern Original.” In 2013, Darryl released “Southern Original,” an original song to promote the contest and kick off the battle of the bands. No matter his involvement, Darryl does not take his spot on the main stage for granted. “We usually go on sometime in late afternoon,” he says. “There’s already a huge crowd by the time I come out.” During his set, which lasts about forty-five minutes, he’ll introduce new songs, but happily pleases fans with their familiar favorites. “Florida has been a
Jason Aldean (left) performs on opening night, September 1, after concerts by Gal Friday Band, the Railers, Darryl Worley, the Oak Ridge Boys, Tyler Farr, and Lee Brice.
54 | SEPTEMBER 2017