Jim Adkins

Jim Adkins grew up in Central Virginia, where an early fascination with the guitar prompted his parents to arrange formal lessons. He later advanced his technique through independent study. While still enrolled in high school, he began professional recording and performing with the regional band Dream. The group appeared at area concerts and functions, among them engagements at King’s Dominion Theme Park. Those years with Dream gave Adkins direct exposure to the realities of a working musician’s schedule. During the same period the band released a pair of regional hit singles while he sharpened his songwriting abilities. Although Dream eventually disbanded, Adkins has sustained his activities as a composer, performer, and guitarist, remaining active in the music industry in various capacities through the present. A wide array of influential guitarists and songwriters has informed his style, a list too extensive to enumerate. His compositions have received awards in jazz, instrumental music, and inspirational or gospel categories. Through sustained self-instruction, analysis, and rigorous rehearsal, he has developed into a highly skilled guitarist.