- Artist Name: Kevin Stokley
- Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
What project(s) are you currently working on?
I’m currently getting ready to release a EP titled “Stories To Prove It”. This is a collection of songs that have me looking at all aspects of my life and sharing them with the listener. It’s truly been a blast to produce these and I look forward to sharing them with the world.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?
I grew up listening to Classic Rock and a lot of Blues. I found music to be a comfort even as early as a 3rd grader. It all started with a drum set for Christmas when I was ten years old. From there, I developed an ear for melodies and started working on the piano, then the guitar. I believe I wrote my first song at the age of 17. It really made me feel like I was part of this bigger picture when folks would respond to the notes and lyrics I had created. From there on, there wasn’t any question that I could pursue a career without it being involved with making music.
If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?
One thing I’ve been told before is that I’m good with technology. Learning how things tick and being able to see why they work together. And I’ve held a couple positions in Tech Support over the years, so probably that!
What is your favorite downtime activity?
It’s funny, because I normally don’t have much downtime. Keeping myself busy and productive is probably a huge downfall, so I’m always working on something. That and helping raise a rowdy five year old boy keeps things trucking along. But I do enjoy being outdoors… whether fishing or kicking around the soccer ball with my boy.
Who is your biggest celebrity crush?
Hmmmm… probably Sara Evans. That woman has such a unique voice and probably the best smile I’ve ever seen on television!
Who is your favorite sports team(s)?
Being from Cincinnati, I’ve gotta support the home team and go with the Red Legs. I’m not much into Football, but another cool thing about Cincinnati is our hockey team. Those are some intense games!
What is the last movie that you watched?
Richard Jewell. I have a soft spot for Clint Eastwood movies, and we share the same birth date. It’s just fascinating to watch a movie or documentary that showcases a character study. I found the movie a lot of fun and you could truly connect with the characters. It’s amazing how the media controls a lot the public opinion.
What is the last album you listened to?
The last album I truly listened to and didn’t skip through was Secondhand Smoke by Sean McConnell. That dude has a way with stories, and I highly recommend it.
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Without question – Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”. I grew up listening to it. It has literally every music style and about twenty or so songs to pick from!
What is the greatest country song of all time?
Oh man… since I’m fairly young and probably missed a lot of great Country songs, I’m going with “Neon Moon” by Brooks & Dunn. Ronnie could sing the phone book and keep my attention. It’s got a lot of imagery in the lyrics and the melody is true to those classic Country songs from generations beforehand.
What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?
San Antonio for sure! It’s a beautiful city with all sorts of humans interacting. Plus the history there is beyond amazing.
What is your favorite meal?
You can’t go wrong with a medium grilled sirloin. Add some homestyle potatoes and honey-glazed carrots… you’re there! But you’ve gotta have cherry pie for dessert.
Who is your dream duet partner?
Female: Sara Evans. Male? Probably Garth Brooks. I mean, who wouldn’t wanna sing with Garth?!
Who would you like to go on tour with?
I’ve heard the guys from Zac Brown Band have a hell of a time on the road. Or even Brad Paisley… just to watch him play the guitar from the side of the stage.
What is your ultimate career goal(s)?
Obviously making a living from releasing music is the ultimately what any artist would want. But more importantly, looking back on my career and being content with what I did. Whether it’s sticking to my guns and only singing about what I know, or not making a complete fool of myself. It’s just like Montgomery Gentry said – “That’s somethin’ to be proud of”.