Recently, while touring with ZZ Top and Collective Soul, The Summit from Cincinnati, OH, has been making waves with their unique blend of vintage rock ‘n’ roll, soul, blues, and a signature sound that resonates deeply with audiences. Their latest single and video, “Blue Skies,” featuring Jena Kraus, is officially out, from their upcoming album, Firebirds and Aviators.
The Summit consists of Chris Scott Melfi (vocals), Mike Hennel (drums), Michael Walker (bass), Matt Goetz (guitar), Coty Hicks (guitar), Nathan Morgan (guitar), and James Wiley-Benes (keyboard, organ).
“Blue Skies” was written in 2015 by Mike Hennel, songwriter Dan Hunt, and Chris Scott Melfi. The song delves into the dark realities of the opioid crisis that has severely affected their region.
Chris explains, “Unfortunately, I’ve seen many friends and loved ones battle addiction, and I know how unpredictable it can be. One day you feel great and the world is filled with ‘Blue Skies,’ and the next those skies turn black. Danny and I collaborated on the lyrics, and he captured this concept so well that we couldn’t decide whether to call the song ‘Blue Skies’ or ‘Black Skies.’”
The Summit was fortunate to connect with Jena Kraus, known for her duet with Shannon Hoon on Blind Melon’s “Mouthful of Cavities.” Chris reached out to her on social media, believing she would be perfect for “Blue Skies,” and Jena agreed to collaborate.
Jena shares, “When Chris told me about the origins of ‘Blue Skies,’ I was immediately moved. I lost my father to an opioid addiction, so the subject is very personal to me. With all we know about mental health and addiction, there’s still a stigma, but I feel deep compassion for those struggling. I hope ‘Blue Skies’ can inspire someone to know they’re not alone.”
Firebirds and Aviators was produced by Will Turpin (Collective Soul) at Reel 2 Reel in Atlanta, GA.
Catch The Summit on tour this summer, supporting Collective Soul during their 30th Anniversary shows, and at the NXNE Music Festival in Toronto, Canada.
