As the North Carolina humidity begins to signal the arrival of summer, the community of Fayetteville is preparing for the return of a beloved seasonal tradition. The Gates Four Summer Concert Series is back, promising a season of high-energy performances, family-friendly atmospheres, and a commitment to keeping live music accessible to everyone.
On May 23, the pavilion at Gates Four Golf & Country Club will transform into a destination for fans of Southern Rock as the acclaimed tribute act Gimme Back My Skynyrd takes the stage. The event marks a significant milestone in the local cultural calendar, offering a professional-grade concert experience without the premium ticket price typically associated with national touring acts.
A Mission of Community and Music
The Gates Four Summer Concert Series is more than just a sequence of musical performances; it is a collaborative effort designed to bridge the gap between local businesses and the community. Bill Bowman, a key organizer, emphasizes that the series is a joint venture fueled by the partnership of the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre, Gates Four, and Up & Coming Weekly.
Bowman emphasizes the concert series offers free live music in a relaxed outdoor setting that brings together businesses, families, neighbors and music lovers. The generosity of sponsors allows this series to remain completely free to the public.
The venue itself has become a major draw for attendees who might otherwise be wary of outdoor summer events. Gates Four offers amenities that make it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for an outdoor concert, including ample shade, a picturesque landscape and clean indoor restrooms.
Beyond the Lawn: The VIP Experience
While the core of the event is free, the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre has curated an elevated "dinner and a show" experience for those looking to make a full night of it. This hybrid model allows the event to cater to everyone, from college students on a budget to families celebrating a special occasion.
For those desiring a bit more comfort, reserved seating under the pavilion is available for $20. For a full “dinner and a show” experience, there is the $35 reserved seating package that includes a full meal. These reservations are handled through the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre at 910-391-3859 or online at https://fayettevilledinnertheatre.com/
There will be plenty of food and beverage options to choose from. JP’s Grill will offer indoor dining options for those looking to escape the heat, while local food trucks will be stationed on-site to provide classic concert fare. For the adults, two full-service bars will be in operation: JP’s Bar and the Healy’s Beer and Wine Tent.
Organizers have also ensured the event remains a multi-generational affair. The Main Event Children’s Area provides a dedicated space for younger fans to burn off energy, making it one of the most family-friendly entertainment options in the region.
May 23: A Tribute to the Legends of the South
The spotlight for the May 23 performance falls on Gimme Back My Skynyrd, a band that considers themselves committed fans of the original music. This isn't just another cover band; it is a collective of seasoned professionals who have dedicated their careers to the Lynyrd Skynyrd songbook.
The band's lineup is as diverse as the audience they draw. With members hailing from Wilmington to Nashville and lots of places in between, the group spans generations, with musicians ranging in age from their 20s to their 60s. Despite their different backgrounds and involvement in various other musical projects, they are united by a singular, "special connection" to the music of the Van Zant era.
Kevin Peele, a member of the band, explains that the group’s philosophy is rooted in authenticity.
"When I go see a good tribute, I almost think I’m listening to the band," Peele said. "We want people to say, ‘This is almost Skynyrd.’ We want to stay as true to the band and the way they played the music as possible."
A Setlist for the Die-Hards and the Casuals
Fans attending the May 23 show should prepare for a marathon session. As a special treat for the crowd at Gates Four, the band is preparing a full two-hour set, a rare occasion in the tribute circuit.
Peele promises a setlist that balances the heavy hitters with deep cuts.
"There are so many songs that everybody knows. We’re going to play all the classics, plus ones that people forget Skynyrd played," he noted. "Songs that die-hard Skynyrd fans will definitely know, but others might not be as familiar with."
The band is particularly excited about the venue’s layout. Unlike massive amphitheaters where the performers are separated from the crowd by barricades and security pits, Gates Four offers a more "personal, close-up venue."
"We love people, and we love interacting with people," Peele said, noting that the intimate setting allows the band to feed off the crowd's energy.
The audience is expected to be a mix of local Fayetteville residents and "Skynyrd-heads" who follow the band across the Southeast to support their meticulous recreation of the 1970s Southern
Rock sound.
The Anthem of the South
No Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute would be complete without the song that defined a generation: "Freebird." For Gimme Back My Skynyrd, the song is treated with a level of reverence bordering on the sacred.
"We always end with Freebird," Peele said. "It’s a very tricky song, but it’s one of the top five songs of all time. All of our guys take it very seriously."
For many in the Fayetteville crowd, that final solo will be the highlight of the summer, a soaring tribute to a musical legacy that refuses to fade.
Event Logistics and Information
As the May 23 date approaches, organizers are encouraging attendees to arrive early to secure a prime spot on the lawn. The proverbial doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the music will begin at 7 p.m. With the combination of free admission, high-quality amenities, and the draw of Gimme Back My Skynyrd, a large turnout is anticipated.
The Gates Four Summer Concert Series continues to prove that music has the power to unify a city. Whether you are there for the nostalgia of the music, the cold drinks at the Healy’s Tent, or a night out with the kids, the event stands as a testament to Fayetteville’s vibrant community spirit.
In a world where the cost of entertainment continues to rise, the Gates Four Summer Concert Series remains a refreshing reminder that the best things in life, like a sunset, a community gathering, and the opening chords of "Sweet Home Alabama," can still be shared for free.