Baber to be lead performer at Freedom Fest
GENTRY — Though July 4 may still seem like a long way off, preparations are underway for the 103rd annual Freedom Festival to be held on Independence Day in the Gentry City Park.
In addition to the spectacular fireworks display held each year at dusk, preparations are being made for afternoon and evening entertainment at the annual event.
Headlining the evening’s entertainment will be Barrett Baber, an Arkansas musician known for his performances on NBC’s “The Voice” and for winning the CBS Grammy Gig of a Lifetime in 2014.
An Arkansas native, Baber’s inspiration for singing and creating music started with frequent visits to Memphis, Tenn., only a few miles from his hometown in Marion. Beale Street and the corners of downtown Memphis were his first exposure to the street performers and artists steeped in blues, R&B, country and rock. These real-life experiences gave Baber the influences and inspiration that shine through his music today. From Sam Cooke to Levon Helm, you can hear the past blazing through Barrett’s tone, all wrapped in a fresh style delivered by one of the Southeast’s hottest artists.
He recently shared the stage with the Rascal Flatts Rhythm & Roots at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, performing there in February and March. He is becoming well-known across the music scene for his unique and soulful country sound.
Opening for Baber will be Kaylin Cripps, of Gentry. Cripps and her band are becoming well known locally for their style of country performances and often provide entertainment at major local events.
The Freedom Festival promises fun for the entire family during the day and a spectacular fireworks display after dark. The day includes rides, games, food vendors, a car show and lots of entertainment.
Applications are being accepted now by the Gentry Chamber of Commerce for those wishing to rent a space in the park for the July 4 event. This includes food vendors, craft vendors, raffles and money raisers, informational booths or political booths.
For more information or to rent booth space, call Janie Parks, Chamber director, at 479-736-2358 or by email at info@gentrychamber.com.