The legacy of one of Northwest Louisiana’s most influential musical voices will take center stage later this month as the The John Gale Horton Foundation hosts its first-ever public celebration in honor of John Gale “Johnny” Horton.

Set for 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, “Honor the Music: Johnny Horton’s 101st Birthday Celebration” will bring the community together for a free outdoor evening of music, remembrance, and purpose. The event will take place at Hurricane Alley Live, located at 500 Ogilvie Street in Bossier City, where attendees can enjoy a live performance from Preston Barrett & The Haze along with food and beverages available for purchase.

While the event celebrates Horton’s enduring influence, organizers emphasize that its mission looks far beyond a single evening.

“This fundraiser is about more than a single night,” said Jake Donaldson, the group’s founder. “It’s about investing in the future of music in Shreveport-Bossier and ensuring the next generation has a stage to stand on. Every dollar raised will help to harness Northwest Louisiana’s rich musical history into a living force to shape American music in the future.”

The foundation not only honors Horton’s memory but also works to preserve and promote the broader musical heritage of Northwest Louisiana. Through initiatives such as scholarships for music students and a resident artist program, it aims to support and develop emerging talent across the region.

Horton himself rose to prominence in the late 1950s through his appearances on the Louisiana Hayride, a Shreveport-based radio show that launched the careers of numerous country music legends. Blending country, rockabilly, and folk influences, he went on to achieve national success with songs like “North to Alaska” and the 1959 Grammy-winning hit “The Battle of New Orleans.”

More information about the event and the foundation can be found at johngalehorton.org, by emailing info@johngalehorton.org, or by visiting the foundation’s Facebook page, “The John Gale Horton Foundation.”