ORANGE BEACH, Ala. - Elaine Petty, meet Jeff Cook.

Petty, a legendary Gulf Coast entertainer, songwriter and guitar picker was doing her thing as part of the Smokin’ Elvises, her group with another legendary Gulf Coast singer, Rhonda Hart, joined sometimes by the fabulous bass of Doug Habbena.

During their Wednesday night show at the Flora-Bama, this fellow got up and wanted to join in and play Petty’s guitar, the one she makes her living with.

While Petty was hemming and hawing – trying desperately to be polite, Hart says - and making excuses about letting the stranger pick up her guitar, Hart was giggling to herself watching her friend.

This fellow, it turns out, has a little experience picking guitar. More than 40 years.

Elaine Petty, meet Jeff Cook, founding member of the legendary country group Alabama from Fort Payne.

“Still scraping egg from my face,” Petty said via Facebook following the show.

Hart says Cook’s recent weight loss confused Petty.

“In her defense she had no idea who she was talking to because he has lost so much weight,” Hart said. “It was very humorous however. He thought it was funny too! The best part was he knew who (Petty) was.”

Which drew a groan from Petty.

“Even more embarrassing,” she said, telling Hart, “next time nudge me and tell me who I am talking to. You're supposed to have my back.”