Dustin Wilkes Biography
Dustin, originally from Jefferson, GA, arrived in Nashville in the fall of 2004 within just hoursof being discharged from the Marine Corp. During his time serving our country as a US Marine hevolunteered to package and sort toys for the Toys for Tots Foundation. After watching a child gaze longingly at the toys, Dustin sat down and wrote “One Toy at a Time”. This song was used for the their nationwide campaign that ultimately raised over $350,000 for children nationally. Dustin received the US Navy and Marine Corp Achievement Medal, the only marine in history to receive a medal for writing a song.
Raised in rural Georgia and adopted by his paternal grandparents Dustin began at an early age to develop his love of music and songwriting. He would stay up all night playing his guitar and writing. His southern roots shine through his music.
He has been a two-time regional finalist in the Colgate Country Showdown, country music’s largest and oldest talent contest in the world. He was a top ten finalist on USA Network’s Nashville Star, which drew 9 million viewers nationwide.
Dustin has perfected the art of entertaining Country Music fans in the clubs and bars in downtown Nashville. He has a passion for not only the music but a passion to entertain. Dustin is truly country music’s up and coming artist for a modern day southern rock revival. But don’t be fooled, though Dustin can work a crowd with his hard country rock, he can turn into an instant crooner with that special slow song.
Dustin is also committed to fundraising for various charities that have been special to him during his career thus far. On June 9, 2011, Dustin hosted the “The Dustin Wilkes and Friends Fight to End Endometriosis”, an annual event held during CMA Music Festival Week. Be sure to visit the website www.end-endo.com for more information on this charity.
Recently, Dustin was chosen to participate in a project called Operation: Sound Off! which was created by Grammy Award winner Robert Reynolds and Producer/Arranger Scotty Huff. OSO is reaching out to talented active duty and veteran status military personnel, who have put their musical dreams on hold in order to serve their country. OSO provides the unique opportunity for these brave individuals to express themselves and tell their stories through music. They will have the opportunity to record their music in a world class recording studio with the best session musicians in the business.
Dustin Wilkes is an enthusiastic entertainer, singer and songwriter that will have the crowd begging for more.
