Keni Thomas: A Hometown Hero’s Musical Homecoming
The air crackles with anticipation, and a familiar tune hums in the background, as Columbus prepares for a return that promises to reignite the local music scene. Country star and Army veteran Keni Thomas, with his band, Cornbread, is set to perform at The Loft on April 12, in a show that captures not only the spirit of his musical journey but also the deep connections that have shaped his life.
This night at the Loft promises to be more than just a concert; as decorated combat veteran and master storyteller Keni Thomas takes the stage. Joining him as the opening act is rising country star Anslee Davidson, whose voice, honed from her time on American Idol and opening for country legends, adds a unique and captivating dimension to the art of storytelling through music. It will be a powerful celebration of narratives and melodies.
Keni’s musical path began in Columbus, a city he came to know through Fort Benning. It was here that he first picked up a guitar and penned his initial songs. His band, Cornbread, formed during the 1990s at local bars, including The Loft—a place where musical experimentation flourished amidst the tight-knit music community. “It’s fun to be talking about Columbus again, especially with Buddy [Nelms], because he’s kind of where it all started,” Keni recalls.
The correlation between Keni’s past and his future is more than nostalgia—it’s a testament to growth and evolution. Having played thousands of shows across the country and shared stages with country music legends like Keith Urban and Trace Adkins, Keni continues to embrace his roots even as his star has risen. In his upcoming performances, he aims to strike a balance between new songs from his upcoming EP, produced by Steve Mandile, and beloved classics from his repertoire. His hit singles and videos, including “Not Me,” “Gunslinger,” and “Shreveport to LA,” have earned him widespread acclaim.
“It’s all new to people who haven’t heard it,” Keni explains about the intriguing evolution of his music. For many in Columbus, Keni’s return means a chance to relive memories tied to songs from the past while discovering the new material that reflects his growth as an artist. “I’m a much better songwriter now,” he states, conveying a confidence that comes from years of experience. Among the established favorites that will surely resonate with fans are “Mona Lisa’s Smile,” “Hero,” and “Circle on the Cross.”
While the show at The Loft is undoubtedly significant, Keni will also perform at the Liberty Theatre on April 11 as part of the Liberty 100 event—an occasion honoring local figures and their contributions to the community. This dual engagement emphasizes Keni’s commitment to Columbus, a city that laid the foundation for his success. The Liberty Theatre performance will serve as a prelude to the larger event at The Loft, allowing Keni to share his patriotism and connect with the audience in a deeply personal manner. “Coming back home is always special, and there’s something about performing where it all started,” Keni says. “It’s not just about the music; it’s about sharing this experience with the people who have supported me for so long.”
Buddy Nelms, owner of The Loft, has been an integral part of Keni’s journey. Their connection dates back to those formative years when Keni was just beginning to make a name for himself in music. In an interview, Buddy expressed the depth of their friendship, stating, “Keni has an impact…He’s just one of those friends. I think we were skiing out west one time, and he just shows up at the ski lift.” This bond has spanned years, intertwined with their mutual love for music and storytelling.
Buddy and Keni’s paths have continued to cross through various artistic endeavors, and Buddy fondly reflects on Keni’s growth as an artist, acknowledging the struggles and triumphs they’ve shared over the years. “Keni is transparent if you just listen to his songs,” he notes. “He puts out a picture for you.” It’s this authenticity in Keni’s lyrics that resonates so deeply with audiences, revealing a life enriched by experience, both as a musician and as a veteran.
As Keni prepares to take the stage, he’s keenly aware of what this performance means—not only to him, but also to his longtime supporters, many of whom will fill The Loft that night. “It’s about sharing this music, this experience, and allowing my kids to see where it all began,” he states, referring to his own family’s excitement to witness the show.
Honoring the Military and Healing Through Music
Beyond his musical pursuits, Keni is a decorated combat veteran who served with the elite 75th Ranger Regiment and fought in the historic “Black Hawk Down” Battle of Mogadishu. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor and has since become a respected motivational speaker and advocate for military personnel. His contributions have been recognized by the White House, Congress, and most recently, he was inducted into the VFW Hall of Fame. He also took time to entertain U.S. troops as part of the USO’s “Hope and Freedom” holiday tour.
Keni’s passion for supporting veterans permeates his music, where themes of resilience and solidarity can be found. For an unforgettable evening that combines heart, history, and live music, grab your tickets for Keni Thomas’s highly anticipated performance at The Loft’s Green Room. The show kicks off at 7:30 p.m. (doors opening at 6:30 p.m.) starting off with the charming Anslee Davison, setting the perfect tone for a night of electrifying entertainment. Tickets are just $20 and can be purchased online at theloft.com or at the venue.
This is a must-see event for music lovers and fans of Keni alike. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness a genuine homecoming and experience the magic of live music at this amazing venue. To learn more about Keni’s upcoming projects, shows and new music, visit kenithomas.com.