Ronnie McDowell

RIPLEY — Nashville star Ronnie McDowell will perform June 30 as part of the Ripley Fourth of July Celebration, Mayor Carolyn Rader and City Council announced.

McDowell shot to fame after his 1977 hit “The King is Dead” following the death of Elvis Presley. Throughout his career he has amassed 30 top 10 records, appeared in movies and TV and continues to tour.

“When a friend approached me about the possibility of bringing such a big superstar to Ripley, I didn’t think we could afford it,” said Rader. “Through the generous support of our sponsors, we were able to make it happen.”

McDowell has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry and with artists including Conway Twitty, Tammy Wynette and Loretta Lynn. His most recent project is a new country album, “Ronnie McDowell Country,” which includes six new songs.

“It’s exciting to have such a talented and famous performer here in Ripley,” said Sara McDowell, director of the Ripley Convention & Visitors Bureau and no relation to the performer. “We look forward to giving him and visitors from both near and far a warm welcome to America’s largest small town Independence Day celebration.”

For more information on Ripley’s Independence Day Celebration, go to www.RipleyFourthofJuly.com.