Today we’d like to introduce you to JD Dohnal.
Hi JD, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in Green Bay, WI, then moved to Minneapolis, MN, for music college, where I lived for 9 years before moving to Nashville, TN. I always knew I would do songwriting (which I still do), but even as far back as college, I wanted to start my own private events band. I started Top Tier 14 years ago and it has continually grown. Top Tier is now one of the most booked and in-demand wedding/corporate bands in Nashville (although we travel throughout the United States.)
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been many obstacles and learning curves along the way. No school teaches a person everything there is to know about running a successful band. I needed to learn to be the best I could be at marketing, communication, customer service, management, taxes, accounting, live sound, stage lighting, and being an effective band leader. The first year the band was in business, we only had 6 events, and I thought the band would fail. Now, we usually have multiple events every week, and business is booming.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Top Tier provides the best of both worlds—a fun, high-energy dance band, a smooth, light jazz band all in one! The band was formed 14 years ago and consisted of top-notch, experienced musicians with a passion for performing. Top Tier has 5 lead vocalists to offer a diverse repertoire that spans over 8 decades and encompasses almost every style of music. We perform as a 5-piece, 6-piece (with sax), or an 8-piece (with a 3-piece horn section). The band members have shared the stage with a diverse group of artists, such as Rick Springfield, The Cars, Craig Morgan, Tiffany, Phil Vassar, Ambrosia, and John Ford Coley. Collectively we have performed everywhere, from casinos to arenas to headlining major outdoor concerts. I take pride in going above and beyond to ensure every client’s event and experience is second to none. Top Tier has won the Wedding Wire Couple’s Choice Award 11 years in a row, The Knot’s “Best of Weddings” award annually, and The Knot’s Hall of Fame” award. Over 300 fantastic reviews of Top Tier have been posted online. On a personal note, I’m very grateful for my success in writing music that has been used in film, TV, and advertising. I’ve had 65 song placements in TV shows/movies. I’ve received several songwriting awards and have written and recorded music with Sawyer Brown, Thompson Square, Winger, Giant, and Steve Perry’s band members.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking is great, and I embrace it, but my main advice is not to count on anyone else. As much as possible, make things happen yourself. That’s been how I’ve operated for much of my songwriting and band success. My Dad used to say, “If you want something done right, do it yourself.” Those words stuck with me as I got older, and I heeded his advice!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.toptierband.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/toptierband
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/toptierband
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/toptierband
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/user/TopTierBand
