Martina McBride headlined the first KIIM Freedom Festival in 2003.
More than 6,000 fans crowded the infield at Hi Corbett Field on a blistering Saturday that year.
For the next three years, right around the Fourth of July, Tucson's lone country station hosted truly American concerts featuring stars like Neal McCoy, Dwight Yoakam, Sara Evans, Merle Haggard and Clint Black.
Then last year, the festival took an odd turn. Instead of stars, KIIM brought in people impersonating the stars.
That's what's in store Saturday for the sixth annual festival. KIIM is bringing back a cast from the Las Vegas Legends of Country Music. It's a chance to experience folks who slightly resemble and sort of sound like Brooks & Dunn, Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire and Tim McGraw.
By all accounts, they're impressive. And if you're a fan of the hits more than the hitmakers, you'll have a ball.
Here's another strong argument to make the drive to the Pima County Fairgrounds: Admission is free if you get your tickets in advance from KIIM.
If you come to the gate empty-handed, admission is $10. Gates open at 4 p.m. For details, call the station at 887-1000.
The fairgrounds are at 11300 S. Houghton Road, off Interstate 10.
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