Spawned out of the rolling hills of Southern Ohio, The Summit – a group of vintage rock n’ rollers – has become one of the country’s most sought-after touring bands. 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 rose beyond their roots in Cincinnati, evolving into a powerful presence on major stages across America. 

In the fall of 2016, songwriters Chris Scott and Mike Hennel struck gold with a publishing and licensing deal in Nashville, introducing fresh, soul-infused blues rock tunes to the scene. 

“Their sound is very reminiscent of modern-day songwriting 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,” said Independent Ear Records Owner Philip Ryan Block. “The Summit is definitely playing outside of their generation, but somehow grabs the attention of all generations lucky enough to see and hear them perform.”  

By April of 2017, The Summit released their self-titled EP (Universal Music Group/ILS), which quickly gained traction nationwide. Their single, “Nicola Jane,” captured tens of thousands of listeners across satellite stations and radio markets, leaving audiences eager for more. 

The success of “Nicola Jane” brought numerous opportunities, including performances with Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Collective Soul, and REO Speedwagon. By the summer of 2017, ZZ Top personally invited The Summit to join their Tonnage Tour, spending two years on the road with the legendary trio and building a loyal fan base across the U.S. 

With a growing fanbase and momentum from their live shows and single releases, The Summit is poised to make an enduring mark in the rock music world.