Written by Tyler Spivey

A large crowd at the Bama Bogg festival at BamaJam Farms sang along to the Commodores hit “Brick House” during the group’s performance Saturday night.

Ronnie Gilley, BamaJam owner, said he was pleased with the variety of the acts.

“We want everyone to enjoy the diverse lineup that is a true representation of the United States of America, regardless of things such as economic status or race,” Gilley said.

Aside from concert performances, the festival offered ATV races, a water park for attendees to cool off, as well as food and merchandise vendors.

“It’s going great,” said Wanda Gerubbs, who was in charge of all the food and merchandise vendors at the event.

Gerubbs said that she had dealt with some bad weather during the festival, but the bands and the crowd had been “awesome.”

Concertgoers said Bama Bogg and last month’s BamaJam festival were very different.

“This is more family oriented,” said Tiffany Oglesby, of Fort Stewart, Ga.

Oglesby said she came to Bama Bogg to see the bands and to celebrate her anniversary.

“I hope they do it again,” said Ben Brim of Troy, who snagged four tickets for the festival from the Alabama Military Department, where he works.

Brim said he was at the festival to let his children swim and see the concerts.

“We’ve come to see the Commodores,” said Terry Mcneil, of Slocomb. “It’s nice to have an entertainment destination close to home.”

Mcneil said he definitely be back to Bama Bogg next year.

Gilley said he hosted the event to bring people together.

“As you can see, we’ve got all kinds of people out here tonight.” said Gilley.

“It’s a unification you don’t usually see, and a release of the mind, body, soul and spirit.”

There’s no word yet on a official headcount for the weekend festival that began on Thursday night.