The Athens music scene is throwing its revival party with a bang, and who better to lead the charge than the iconic B-52s? According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the band known for anthems like "Rock Lobster" and "Love Shack" will grace the stage as the first act to perform at the new Classic Center Arena in Athens, set for December 14th. Indie act Of Montreal and DJ Cummerbund are joining in, ensuring the opening acts are as eclectic and spirited as the headliners themselves.
Construction is well underway for the Classic Center Arena, a versatile venue located steps away from downtown Athens. With the capacity to seat up to 8,500 patrons, the space promises to be a hot spot for concerts, sporting events, and conventions. Boasting a fresh professional hockey team named the Rock Lobsters and hosting the UGA Ice Dawgs, the arena will extend its embrace well beyond music. As reported by WSB-TV Atlanta, fans keen on attending the inaugural event can snag their tickets starting Friday at 10 a.m. via ClassicCenter.com.
Paul Cramer, the Classic Center's CEO, expressed pride in hosting the hometown heroes for the arena's debut show. "We are honored to host The B-52s as the first concert in the Arena. Their impact on music in Athens has helped pave the way for this exciting new era of entertainment in the Classic City," said Cramer, in a statement obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta.
The mayoral excitement is palpable as well, with Mayor Kelly Girtz stating, "As a band that put Athens on the musical map and paved the way for so many others to find success, I could not be more excited to have The B-52s open The Classic Center Arena." Girtz eagerly anticipates joining "thousands of friends and neighbors" to dance it out at the much-anticipated kick-off event, as per WSB-TV Atlanta report.
Formed in 1976, The B-52s have indelibly inked their mark on Athens' musical legacy, selling over 20 million albums during their vibrant career. Through their performance at the arena, even the fans that have followed the band since their inception, they will experience a significant milestone alongside the group, witnessing the opening of a new chapter in Athens' cultural life. The new arena aims to build on The B-52s’ foundational work, creating a hub for entertainment and community that will likely bring together generations of music lovers and ice hockey fans alike, according to the mayor's statement to WSB-TV Atlanta.
