The Black Crowes and their impressive opening acts

The Black Crowes have always had respect for their elders.

Over the years, the band, featuring Chris Robinson, left, has toured with many of its influences including Tom Petty, the Who and members of Led Zeppelin and the Grateful Dead.

For its four-night stand at Terminal 5 starting tomorrow, the group has handed opening slots to some of its lesser-known favorites from the past.

Here's a look at the openers and why fans should make sure to show up early each night.

Ray Wylie Hubbard

Hubbard is one of the first people to combine country music and hard rock and was a mainstay on the 1970s Texas outlaw scene that also included Willie Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker. He's best known for writing "Up Against the Wall, Redneck Mother," which became one of Walker's most popular songs. (Thursday)

The Blind Boys of Alabama

Gospel group The Blind Boys of Alabama formed in the 1930s but found its greatest success after 2000. Since then, it has had one of its songs chosen to be the theme for Season One of HBO's "The Wire," and performed with musicians including Peter Gabriel, Tom Waits and Ben Harper. The group's latest album, "I'll Find a Way," was produced by Bon Iver's Justin Vernon. (Saturday)

Dr. John & the Nite Trippers

One of New Orleans' most popular musicians, Dr. John combines psychedelic rock and blues with classic Bayou sounds, then wraps it all in a stage show that has been known to include Mardi Gras costumes and voodoo ceremonies. (Sunday)

Maceo Parker

A jazz and soul legend, Parker has served as a sideman for three of the greatest funk musicians of all time: James Brown, George Clinton and Prince. He also has released more than a dozen albums under his own name. (Oct. 29)