There is no mistaking the raw and powerful vocals by singer, songwriter and guitarist Dave Adkins. His significant chart success, coupled with stellar live performances, have made him one of most talked-about male vocalists in acoustic music. Adkins was born in Pikeville, Kentucky and makes his home in Elkhorn City. He began playing and singing when he was just 8 years old and joined a band with fellow classmates performing at schools and other venues. At 17, he began playing bluegrass music at Dollywood where he stayed two years. A year later, Adkins was named a Kentucky Colonel – the highest title of honor bestowed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Commissions for Kentucky colonels are given by the governor and the secretary of state to individuals in recognition of noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to a community, state or the nation. He is also a proud Mason and Shriner. After Dollywood, Adkins took a turn doing solo Country shows and later performed with a rock band. In 2010, he returned to the genre that was his first love, bluegrass. Adkins’ soulful vocals earned him a 2013 SPBGMA nomination as Male Vocalist of the Year in the Contemporary category.
