Josh Sanders, a singer/songwriter from Faulkville,  will record a live video at the Mars Theatre on Sept. 12. Sanders recently opened for Corey Smith at the Music Vault and Red June at the Mars Theatre.

At age 14, Sanders traded in the saxophone he played in the middle school band for his first guitar. It didn’t take him long to realize that playing guitar, singing and songwriting came naturally to him — and that it was what he loved to do. Sanders began playing for family, friends and anyone who would lend an ear and listen to him. He played many campfire shows at his hunting club, where he developed a stage presence and the ability to connect with the audience.

Ten years after he strummed his first chord he set out on a vacation to Nashville, Tenn. After arriving in Music City, Sanders realized that this was where he needed to be if he wanted to pursue a career in music. Returning home he put together a one-man, acoustic show and hit the local bar scene in the areas surrounding Savannah to build his stage presence. His first show was a huge success but only made him want more.

He moved to Nashville, Tenn., in 2010. He began playing the honky-tonks along Broadway and honing his writing.

“We are excited about having Josh at the Mars Theatre — and even more happy that he chose to record and produce a live video on our stage,” said Tommy Deadwyler, Springfield director of cultural affairs. “I would suggest that people buy their tickets early.”

Sanders is living near his hometown again, where he continues to write new songs. He is writing and planning his third album, expected to be released in the fall.

For more information about the show, visit marstheatre.com. Tickets are $20. Doors open Sept. 12 at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m.