Tim Oliver, a Columbus native now residing in Nashville, is making waves with his latest track “Wish it Would Rain” Oliver is rocking it on the third episode of the Buckeye Music Spotlight with “Reckon I Wrecked It”. Known for his dynamic presence both on and off the stage, Oliver’s new release highlights his versatility and enduring passion for music.
A fixture in the Ohio music scene, Oliver’s journey began in southeastern Ohio along the Muskingum River. He first gained prominence as the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for Exit City, an original rock band based in Columbus, from 2007 to 2010. His talent was further recognized in 2017 when he finished in the top 10 of Usher’s “Mega Star” competition.
Oliver’s debut single “Too Young,” released in the summer of 2020, marked the beginning of a promising solo career. Since then, he has released eight additional singles, earning airplay in both the UK and the US. His rise in the country music scene is further highlighted by his performances alongside notable artists such as Craig Campbell, Ernest, and Hardy.
Currently based in Nashville, Oliver frequently returns to Ohio to perform at his beloved local venues. With his ongoing success and a string of new releases on the horizon, Tim Oliver is a rising star in the country music world to watch.
For more updates on Tim Oliver’s music and upcoming releases, stay tuned to the Buckeye Music Spotlight.
Jimi Vincent, a seasoned musician with roots deep in the heartland of Ohio, captivated audiences in the latest episode of Buckeye Music Spotlight with an acoustic rendition of his song “Lonely State of Mind” from his acclaimed album “Horse Play.”
Vincent’s musical journey began at the tender age of five, inspired and mentored by his father and uncle. A promise to master the guitar by the time his uncle returned from the Vietnam War was the driving force behind his early dedication. By the time he performed “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” for his elementary school classmates, it was clear that music was his calling.
Vincent’s formative years were spent performing with his father’s country band, where he honed his vocal, guitar, and stage skills. This experience laid the groundwork for a career that would see him share the stage with legendary artists such as Robert Cray, Guy Davis, Travis Tritt, Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris, Kenny Neal, and Big James and the Chicago Playboys.
In 1996, Vincent and his band recorded “Horse Play” with the legendary Jack Clement at the iconic Cowboy Arms Hotel and Recording Spa in Nashville, TN. This album helped cement Vincent’s reputation in the music world, showcasing his soulful vocals and intense guitar playing. His sound, described as mesmerizing and “the real deal,” has resonated with audiences across Ohio, West Virginia, Tennessee, Michigan, and Indiana.
Vincent’s live performances are a testament to his dynamic stage presence and musical prowess. Notable venues and events such as BB King’s Memphis, The Rum Boogie Cafe, The Dayton Blues Festival, and The Blues, Brews and BBQ in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, have all hosted Vincent, with audiences frequently requesting encores. His collaboration with the Mansfield Symphony Orchestra stands out as a highlight, blending his blues roots with classical elements.
A three-time competitor in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN, Vincent has consistently demonstrated his talent on an international stage. Despite his extensive experience, he continues to seek new creative avenues and is currently working on a 12-song album set to be released in the summer of 2024.
Fans can enjoy Vincent’s music on popular streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music. His latest performance on Buckeye Music Spotlight is a testament to his enduring talent and passion for music. To stay updated on his latest news and performances, follow Jimi Vincent and his band on Facebook at “/jimivincentbluesman“.
Vincent’s appearance on Buckeye Music Spotlight not only highlights his exceptional musicianship but also cements his status as a beloved figure in the regional music scene. His acoustic performance of “Lonely State of Mind” is a reminder of the emotional depth and technical skill that define his music, making this episode a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
In the first episode of Buckeye Music Spotlight, the spotlight falls on Dawson Stepp, a 20-year-old guitarist and singer hailing from Ashland, Ohio. Known for his impressive musical talents and captivating performances, Dawson has been making waves in the local music scene and beyond.
Dawson’s journey into the world of music began at the tender age of 4 when he unwrapped an electric guitar on Christmas morning. From that moment on, he was hooked. Although he started with lessons, Dawson’s natural talent and dedication led him to largely teach himself, learning by ear and studying videos of his musical idols.
Throughout his teenage years, Dawson honed his skills by attending jam nights in his area, jamming with seasoned musicians, and immersing himself in the rich musical culture of Ohio. His hard work paid off when, as a high school senior, he landed the coveted role of lead guitarist for country music artist Brent Lowry.
This role opened doors for Dawson, allowing him to share the stage with renowned acts such as Scotty McCreery, Sean Stemaly, David Adam Byrnes, and Dillon Carmichael. His talent even caught the attention of Southern Rock band Them Dirty Roses, who invited him to join them on stage after seeing a video of him covering one of their songs.
Dawson’s star continued to rise when he caught the eye of The Steel Woods, who invited him for a meet and greet during their tour stop in Cincinnati. This remarkable feat was achieved before Dawson even graduated high school, underscoring his prodigious talent and dedication to his craft.
In 2023, Dawson seized another opportunity, becoming the lead guitarist for country music artist Tim Oliver from Columbus, Ohio. As a member of Tim Oliver’s band, Dawson has shared the stage with notable artists like Ray Scott, Tigirlily Gold, and Colt Ford.
The dynamic duo of Tim and Dawson recently embarked on a trip to Nashville to perform and record a new single, signaling their aspirations to make a mark on the country music scene. With plans to relocate to Nashville this Spring, Dawson and Tim are poised to take their careers to new heights.
With his remarkable journey and boundless talent, Dawson Stepp is undoubtedly a rising star to watch. Be sure to follow Tim and Dawson for updates on their latest endeavors and upcoming releases. Don’t miss out on witnessing the ascent of this young musical prodigy – subscribe to Buckeye Music Spotlight today.
Joe Lyons •
September 7, 2024
