Our Story

Spawned out of the rolling hills of Southern Ohio, vintage rock n’ rollers, The Summit, have become one of the country’s most sought out touring bands over the past few years. The lineup consists of Chris Scott (vocals), Mike Hennel (drums and vocals), Michael Walker (bass), Matt Goetz (guitar), Nathan Morgan (guitar), and James Wiley-Benes (keys and vocals). After consecutive invites to join legendary rock trio ZZ Top on tour in both 2017 and 2018, The Summit quickly became more than just a Midwest band from Cincinnati, OH; they became a relevant force on big stages all over America.

In the fall of 2016, song-writing duo Chris Scott (Vocals) and Mike Hennel (drums) struck gold with a publishing and licensing deal in Nashville while writing a fresh batch of soul-infused blues rock tunes.

“Their sound is very reminiscent of modern-day song-writing gurus such as JJ Grey and Amos Lee, but it’s insanely fused with the vintage tones of iconic rock bands such as Led Zeppelin, Humble Pie and The Black Crowes. The Summit is definitely playing outside of their generation, but somehow grab the attention of all generations lucky enough to see and hear them perform!” Philip Ryan Block – Owner, Independent Ear Records

By April of 2017, the band dropped their self-titled EP (Universal Music Group/ILS) where it quickly gained overnight success. Their first single, Nicola Jane, reached tens of thousands across satellite stations and mainstream/independent radio markets throughout the country, leaving many with a very curious ear for more.
“It’s a little Black Crowes, a little Humble Pie, and hell of a lot of soul! You may be able to recognize many of this band’s numerous influences in their amazing sound, but one thing’s for sure…you can’t fake soul and this band’s got soul!” Brian Robbins Relix Magazine/Jambands.com

The success of Nicola Jane brought the band numerous opportunities on the road. Performing with acts such as the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Collective Soul, and REO Speedwagon allowed Scott and Hennel to solidify the group’s line-up with full-time members, both for collaboration and touring efforts. It was during the summer of 2017 when the band was personally invited to join legendary rocker’s, ZZ Top, on their upcoming Tonnage Tour. The Summit would spend the next two years touring with the legendary trio, while establishing a dedicated fan base in dozens of markets all over the U.S.

Over the past couple of years, The Summit has completed successful tours with ZZ Top, Collective Soul, and REO Speedwagon, to name a few. They've recently teamed up with one of the industry's most renowned producers, Will Turpin of Collective Soul. The band has just finished recording their first full-length album at Real to Reel Studios in Georgia, which is set to be released on November 1st. The lead single "Hit Me Up" from their debut album has already won over 500k in streams ahead of the album release.

Already gaining traction from their live performances and single releases, The Summit is continuing to climb the ranks and make waves throughout the music world.


The Band

Chris Scott

Vocals, Harp

Mike Hennel

Drums, Vocals

Michael Walker

Bass

Matt Goetz

Guitar

James Wiley-Benes

Keys

Nathan Morgan

Guitar
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