Richardson unveils moonpie song

MOBILE, Ala. - In three days and counting a giant Moonpie will rise over Mobile to ring in a new year. Tuesday, city councilman Fred Richardson unveiled a song inspired by the one of a kind event.

Moonpie Madness takes over the city council meeting, as leaders gear up to ring in 2010 with a Moonpie over Mobile.

"It's going to be exciting, outstanding and entertaining," said Fred Richardson.

Now, there's even a theme song for the event, Ray Farnell is the man behind the lyrics.

Farnell sings a bit of the tune, "Way down in Alabama on New Year's Eve, all the people get together for a sight to see, that moonpie, high above Mobile River."

For the first time the jingle is played before a live audience. Fred Richardson, the "Moonpie King" sways to music.

The group The Rayz, featuring Marcus Johnson and the Bay City Brass Band composed the song to commemorate the unique nature of the Moonpie rising with a bit of Mardi Gras flare.

"Actually started this about a week ago and it all came together in a matter of days," said John Strope with Dogwood Productions.

And in a matter of days the Moonpie will rise above the River, this time on the Mobile side.

"Moonpie will be in the park this year," said Richardson.

Writers of "Moonpie Over Mobile," hope it will be around for years. The jingle has already caught on.

The New Year's Eve Celebration kicks off Thursday at 8:00 p.m. in Cooper Riverside Park.