Today we’d like to introduce you to Zakk Tompkins.
Hi Zakk, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in Mahomet, IL with my mom, dad and younger sister. Early on, I competed in wrestling and martial arts. We were blessed to travel as a family across the country competing together. Later in college, I got into rodeo and competed across the Midwest in calf roping. I also ran a horse farm for nearly 10 years doing boarding, lessons and training. During this time I met my wife Danielle and together we ran the farm for several years. Eventually we moved into new careers but we still have several horses and my wife still competes in breakaway roping. In 2020, after the sudden loss of my father, I began writing songs and performing live across the Midwest.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been about what you could expect. There have been highs and lows. There have been nights I played in a room with just me and the bartender. (One particularly rough night even the bartender exited the room.) There have been other nights where 600 people were singing back every word to what I was playing.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
With my background in the horse world, I was heavily exposed to red dirt and Texas country. Early on, these greatly influenced what I wrote and covered. I also listened to a lot of rock, some jazz and rap as well growing up. As I’ve grown as a writer and performer, I’ve changed my style and voice more into
my own. It’s now an odd mix of country, rock and soulful grit.
I’m most proud of being able to interact with folks just struggling with life. Playing late nights in bars has crossed my path with many other hurting people. I’ve greatly
Enjoyed the opportunity to just sit with them and share my life and faith with them.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Be humble and consistent. You will have ups and downs. Be greatful for both and learn from both. Be coachable but be confident in your own ability. Be willing to put in the work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zakktompkinsmusic.wixsite.com/zakk-tompkins
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zakktompkinsmusic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zakktompkinsmusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKvKsCjtXZrcTWfVmnV8AkQ
