‘American Idol’ contestant to perform at Pellissippi State

“American Idol” contestant Johnny Newcomb. Image courtesy of American Idol.

“American Idol” contestant Johnny Newcomb and his band, The 8Bits, will perform at an outdoor concert at Pellissippi State Community College’s Blount County Campus Friday, May 30, and the community is invited.

The concert is 6:30-8:30 p.m. and is free.

“The Blount County Campus has an amphitheater surrounded by a large green space that’s perfect for outdoor entertainment,” said Holly Burkett, campus dean. “I encourage everyone to bring a blanket or lawn chair. We want you to relax and enjoy the concert!”

Newcomb, a Maryville native, was a contestant on “American Idol” Season 13. He attends Heritage High School and is now the frontrunner of local band The 8Bits, which is in the process of recording an album.

“We’ll be playing rock music,” Newcomb said. “I know I speak for all of us in The 8Bits when I say we’re very excited to play this show. Getting to perform for a group of college-age guys and gals is exciting. We hope to have everyone there as excited as we are.”

Concert attendees should bring something to sit on, and they are welcome to bring snacks and beverages. Alcohol is prohibited. Pets on leashes are welcome.

“Johnny loves folk, pop, alternative rock, blues and bluegrass music. It’s very interesting to see how he blends all of these musical styles together,” said Timothy Whitehead, a Pellissippi State student who is helping to plan the event. The Blount County Campus is located at 2731 W. Lamar Alexander Pkwy.

For more about the performance, call (865) 981-5300. To request accommodations for a disability, contact the executive director of Human Resources and Affirmative Action at (865) 694-6607 or humanresources@pstcc.edu.