Magic is definitely in the air this weekend since one of my all-time favorite groups, New Edition, and singer, Babyface, are in town.

The Birmingham Funkfest kicks off at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 21 at Legion Field. Performing artists include New Edition, Guy, 8 Ball & MJG, Silk, Uncle Luke, and the SOS Band. Tickets start at $40. This event is held rain or shine. There are no refunds or exchanges. In the event rain is in the forecast, patrons may bring regular-sized umbrellas and ponchos. Umbrellas may not be used unless it is raining.

The following items are not permitted inside the venue: tents, grills, golf umbrellas, video recorders, outside food and/or beverage, coolers, bags larger than 12 x 12, pets (unless serving as an aid to disabled persons).

Also on Saturday, May 21 at 8 p.m., Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds presents The Story Behind the Songs at the Alys Stephens Center. The sold-out program will bring together reminiscences from throughout Edmonds’ career and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, along with some hit music. Edmonds has written and produced over 125 Top-10 R&B and pop hits and has 11 Grammys on his shelf, including one from his 2014 duets album with Toni Braxton, titled Love, Marriage & Divorce. Many of your favorite songs by Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Eric Clapton, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, John Mellencamp, Beyoncé and Aretha Franklin, to name a few, were written by Babyface. Most recent productions with other super-star vocalists include Colbie Caillat, Jennifer Hudson, Barbra Streisand and Ariana Grande. Edmonds’ charitable work is as impressive as his professional accomplishments. His compassion and generosity have earned him several accolades, including the Essence Award for Excellence, City of Hope Award and Variety magazine’s “Top of the Town” Honoree Award.

For more information, visit the Alys Stephens website.