Born in the heart of Kentucky, Ernie "Sticktight" Akins has had an infatuation for music since he started walking. The name Sticktight came from Country Music Superstar, John Michael Montgomery. When visiting John at his farm, a two year old Ernie Akins was exploring in the woods and emerged covered in sticktights. John found it humorous and said, "Boy, we're going to have to start calling you, 'Sticktight'". Since then, "Sticktight" has stuck.
Sticktight grew up listening to radio and chart topping icons such as Waylon Jennings, Charlie Daniels, Montgomery Gentry, and well as legendary Blues, Classic & Southern Rock Bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet, George Thorogood, Stevie Ray Vaughn, etc. When performing, you can hear these influences blended into one giving Sticktight a sound of his own.
The Country singer-songwriter writes songs from his experiences growing up in South Central Kentucky, paying homage to his roots, stories from the road, and making the most out of life appreciating what you have.
2022 was a massive momentous year for Sticktight! Since the release of his debut album, "The Beginning", he has achieved accolades in a short amount of time!
Accolades include:
- 2022 Male Rising Star of the Year (ISSA Music Awards: Atlanta, GA)
- 2022 Music Video of the Year "Hillbilly Hollywood" (Who's Hoo Country Music Awards: Columbus, IN)
- 2023 Male Vocalist of the Year (ISSA Awards: Atlanta, GA)
- 2024 Male Music Video of the Year "All That and Then Some"(ISSA Music Awards: Atlanta, GA)
- 2024 Entertainer of the Year (Who's Hoo Independent Country Music Awards: Columbus, IN)
Sticktight has performed at many venues plus being the opening act for such artists as David Frizzell, Tom Wopat, Rehab, Scotty Austin, Whey Jennings, Dallas Moore, Donnie Baker and many more.
In 2023, Sticktight embarked on his first international tour performing aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's (NCL) Norwegian Joy. The 3 month tour, expanding from April 1st - June 25th, brought Sticktight and his band to 16 countries performing 6 nights a week.
During this time, Sticktight's fan base grew immensely, greeting new faces and reaching audiences from all over the United States and abroad.
Sticktight's performances and engagement with fans caught the attention of 10 year veteran cruise director, Jack Laflin. Mr. Laflin gave high praise stating,
"Great Music & Great People. Had the pleasure of Sticktight working with me on board the Norwegian Joy. Not only did they make great music and keep people very happy but they are some of the most personable musicians I've ever worked with in 10 years at sea. A real pleasure to have met and worked with them."
Sticktight's Band consists of seasoned professional musicians who are determined, passionate, and driven to perform as well as deliver a memorable charismatic performance, giving 110% every time they step on stage.
When attending a Sticktight concert, you’ll be guaranteed entertainment at it’s best. Keeping the crowds engaged with not only his original music, but a variety of audience favorites of legendary Country and Rock songs from Lynyrd Skynyrd, Waylon Jennings, Fleetwood Mac, The Charlie Daniels Band, Bon Jovi, ZZ Top, Luke Combs and CCR, among countless others.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.