This weekend, the City of Amory is set to host its first Railroad Festival following the aftermath of the devastating tornado that swept through the South in March 2023. After an afternoon full of local talent and a karaoke competition, Amory’s own, and American Idol 2023 Top 5 Finalist, Zachariah Smith, takes the spotlight on the main stage on the 2nd night of the Railroad Festival, scheduled for this Saturday, April 13, 2024. Smith’s primetime performance promises to be a highlight of the event.
With thousands of eager fans anticipated to attend, Zachariah Smith’s exceptional talent and vocals are sure to mesmerize the audience. During his hour-long set to kickoff the evening’s lineup, attendees will be treated to a preview of several new original tracks, including “Rainy Days,” the lead single from his forthcoming album slated for release in the coming weeks. However, it is Smith’s lyrics in “Midnight in Mississippi” that are expected to resonate deeply with the hometown crowd, evoking a sense of history and passion. The song recounts the tale of the retired Frisco 1529 locomotive, which famously transported President Franklin D. Roosevelt during his 1934 tour of the state. Today, the locomotive stands proudly in downtown Amory’s Frisco Park, serving as a fitting backdrop for Saturday’s performance.
Sharing the main stage with Zachariah Smith on Saturday night is, fellow American Idol Season 21 alumni, Mariah Faith, a rising talent and close friend of Smith’s, known for her soulful blend of country, blues, and rock. Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, and raised in Conway, South Carolina, Faith recently debuted her first single, “rainbows at midnight,” on April 5th, 2024. With her organic sound and raw vocal style, Faith captivates audiences with her storytelling and self-expression, complementing Smith’s performance with her own unique flair.
Closing out the performances will be Mikenley Brown of New Castle, Indiana, who in addition to her music, uses her voice to address bullying and other issues facing teens and young adults. In addition to the musical performances, the Railroad Festival offers a diverse array of attractions for attendees of all ages, including a car show, carnival rides, a 5K run, delectable apple fritters, train rides, and more.
