Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Brent Cobb is bringing South of Atlanta Fest back to Macon on May 1-2 for a two-day run of live music, intimate songwriter sessions and Southern soul across some of the city’s most storied venues.

Self-proclaimed “songwriter first and performer second,” Cobb built his reputation writing hits for some of country music’s biggest artists, including Luke Combs (“Days Like These”), Luke Bryan (“Tailgate Blues”), Miranda Lambert (“January Heart” and “Old Sh!t”) and Kenny Chesney (“Don’t It”), before stepping out front with fan favorites like “Black Creek,” “Diggin’ Holes” and “Keep ‘Em on They Toes.” 

“Macon’s always had something special in the air,” Cobb said. “There’s a rich musical history there, and there are some incredible artists making music in this town right now. I love getting to record here, see shows here and now bring folks together to celebrate it. South of Atlanta Fest is about honoring that legacy while shining a light on what’s happening in Macon today.”

Cobb’s choice to host the festival in Macon is deliberate. As the birthplace of Southern rock and a pillar for American soul music, the city represents one of the most influential and yet unsung chapters in the country’s music history, and it’s one Cobb has experienced personally. As a Georgia native who recorded his 2023 album Southern Star at the renowned Capricorn Sound Studios, his musical journey has long been influenced by Macon.

With the festival, he aims to celebrate the city’s rich legacy while forging new traditions for the next generation of fans. The festival is made possible through partnerships with Visit Macon, The Big House, Piedmont Brewery, Grant’s Lounge, The Robins Financial Capitol Theatre, Mercer University, Capricorn Sound Studios and Fresh Produce Records.

The weekend kicks off May 1 on the back lawn of The Big House, the home-turned-museum of The Allman Brothers Band. Wristband holders will enjoy free live music and museum access with Cobb himself tending the boiled peanut pot. That evening, the celebration moves to the historic Robins Financial Capitol Theatre, where Tobacco Road opens for American Aquarium in one of Macon’s most iconic rooms. 

May 2 kicks off with an intimate songwriter round at the legendary Capricorn Sound Studios in Studio B, where Cobb and fellow songwriters pull back the curtain on their creative process. This event is separately ticketed and not included with the festival wristband. That evening, fans can catch a pre-party show at Grant’s Lounge before Kristina Murray opens for Brent Cobb & The Fixin’s at The Robins Financial Capitol Theatre. Each night will close with an afterparty at Grant’s Lounge.

Wristband holders receive complimentary access to The Big House Day Party and museum on May 1, as well as the pre-party at Grant’s Lounge on May 2. Find all tickets here.