After Buffet splash, BP funds may go to more free beach concerts to help Ala. Gulf tourism

BP may fund more beach shows for Ala. after Buffet

GULF SHORES, Ala. — BP’s oil money may pay for a series of free beach concerts to lure tourists to the Alabama coast, where the Gulf spill has wrecked the summer season.

Jimmy Buffett gave a free show on the beach Sunday that drew thousands to Gulf Shores.

Officials say they hope to follow up with more big-name performers through the fall. Buffett performed for free and promoters hope other artists would also donate their time.

Promoters say acts may include country singers Faith Hill and Zac Brown and soft rocker Jack Johnson.

The money for staging the shows would come from funding BP gave Alabama and other Gulf states to promote tourism hurt by the oil company’s massive spill. BP’s tourism grant to Alabama was $15 million, of which $3.5 million paid for holding the Buffett concert.