Alabama and The Marshall Tucker Band

Alabama, formed by cousins Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry, and Jeff Cook, revived country bands in the late '70s with a blend of country and rock. The band, rooted in Alabama, gained fame with hits like "Tennessee River" and achieved 27 number-one singles in the '80s. They secured multiple awards and had seven multi-platinum albums. Alabama's signature sound and remarkable success, particularly with their seamless harmonies and crossover appeal, set a high bar in country music. Their influence continues, even after multiple reunions and the passing of band member Jeff Cook.

The Marshall Tucker Band, formed in 1971 in Spartanburg, SC, is known for blending rock, country, and jazz, with hits like "Heard It in a Love Song." Their peak was the platinum album *Carolina Dreams* in 1977. Despite setbacks like Tommy Caldwell's death in 1980, they remained influential Southern rock pioneers, collaborating with various musicians and evolving stylistically.