The Sam Phillips Celebration will take place on January 5th through January 10th,2009. Jerry Philips, Sam's youngest son, said the concept behind the celebration remembering his father is to feature artists that mirror the various genres of music that Sam Phillips recorded such as Rock n Roll, Blues and Country. The event is now in it's fourth year and will be held at the Marriott Shoals Conferce Center in Florence, Alabama.
Delbert McClinton is the headliner of the event. Delbert represents the blues era of Sam's career when he produced Howling Wolf, BB King and Ike Turner. Sam's youngest son Jerry said, "Sam started out recording blues artists before Elvis or any of the other guys. It's what he liked to do." Jerry also said McClinton has alot of connections in Florence having recorded there in the past.
Jason D. Williams will return for his third appearance at the Sam Phillips event. He is back by popular demand said Jerry. Sonny Burgess and The Pacers will also honor Sam. Sonny said he wanted to pay tribute to Sam while he was still around. "Sonny Burgess is an original Sun artist that Sam actually recorded. Sonny wanted to do the show for a couple of years ." said Jerry Phillips.
More guests will be announced.