Jenkins Valley

On one hand, to say that Jenkins Valley's musical and artistic background is eclectic would win the Understatement of the Year Award. The members have roots in various genres: folk, rap, rock, singer-songwriter, country, blues, contemporary Christian, praise and worship, and maybe even a little bluegrass. All six artists play multiple instruments and write music. No less than four have performed as a solo artist. One won a national video contest (he also has a film degree). Another won an international film contest. One rapped in a three-man group that enjoyed regional success on radio and on tour in the Oklahoma City area.

On the other hand, JV's roots are very much intertwined. The band consists of two sets of siblings, and one of those brothers is married to another member's sister. Five of the six were homeschooled, and all grew up and met in Chickasha, OK, a small town just southwest of Oklahoma City.

Two years ago, producers invited Jenkins Valley (then called "For the Name") to record. After the invite, the band boldly added a new lead singer into the mix, somebody with whom the producers found an instant liking. The husky-voiced front man, Billy Elkins, said the Nashville trip was "one of the greatest experiences of my life. It taught me a lot about the music industry and production process." It not only worked for Billy, but it worked for the entire band as the single "You Have My Heart" peaked at number six on the iTunes blues chart. And while it landed on that chart, the band might be defined in other genres as well.

"Indie Rock," says Billy, which is often the go-to handle when one is not quite sure of the genre. And while Jenkins Valley has its own definite distinct sound, one could hear it alongside the likes of Kings of Leon, The Killers, and The Black Keys. And call the genre what you want, but when you hear the eclectic backgrounds all mixed in, the sibling harmonies, and the general chemistry of a group of small-town friends, you'll call it "great music"!