ABOUT US
A VISION OF A LIFETIME
Jackson Heights may be a new name in the Christian music scene, but the band members bring a rich history to their sound. Emerging from the DMB Band, which pioneered the Christian country music genre in the 1980s, Jackson Heights continues to create music that combines modern country sounds with a powerful, positive message.
The original DMB Band formed when Allen O’Neal, Kent Humphrey, Olan Witt, and Frank Sutton wanted to create a fresh sound in Gospel music. With influences from country music of the day, they crafted a unique style that became known as Christian country. They released several chart-making songs, including "Last Train to Glory," "Good Ole Boys," and "Run Little Brother."
In 2012, the band reunited for a special performance in Kinston, NC, which rekindled their passion and showcased the timelessness of their music. This reunion set the stage for a fresh start, and in 2015, the band members rebranded as Jackson Heights, named after the community where they all once lived.
Now, as Jackson Heights, the band continues to delight fans old and new with its innovative blend of country and Christian music. Their commitment to spreading a positive message through authentic and engaging performances remains as strong as ever. With their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics, Jackson Heights is poised to make a significant impact on the Christian music scene today.
THE BAND
KENT HUMPHREY | VOCALS & ACOUSTIC GUITAR
KENT HUMPHREY started his career in music in 1981 when he became the lead singer of the Dixie Melody Boys who later became the DMB Band. He was also a part of the band MidSouth in the 1990’s and has received numerous music industry awards including several CCMA Awards, a Grammy nomination & in 1996, won The Dove Award for “Country Recorded Song Of The Year” with the song “Without You (I Haven’t Got A Prayer)”. In 2018, Kent received the “Living Legend “ Award by the Inspirational Country Music Association.
Kent lives outside Bowling Green, KY with his wife Marie blessed with 38 years of marriage. They have a daughter Emily & son-in-law Mercuis, a son Jordan & daughter-in-law Jenny with 3 grandsons Harrison, Beau & Leland plus granddaughter Maeve.
ALLEN O'NEAL | VOCALS & ACOUSTIC GUITAR
ALLEN O'NEAL began his career in gospel music with his Dad, Ed O’Neal, who owns a well-known quartet from Kinston, North Carolina named The Dixie Melody Boys. In the 1980’s, the group was a pure Southern Gospel, four-part harmony quartet. While they were very successful in the business, group members had a desire to make a musical change. They all liked the style of that day’s country music but as Christians did not embrace the lyrics or lifestyle. So with the help of several producers and song writers they created the sound that launched the DMB Band. It was pure country music with a powerful message and positive lyrics. After 15 years in the music business, Allen realized it was time to devote more time to his family. So over the next several years he was very involved in his home church as a singer and technical director. Allen and Teresa have two boys, Austin and Logan, who are both married and one granddaughter plus two grandsons. Today, Allen loves traveling and playing music with the guys in Jackson Heights and looks forward to spending his remaining musical career with the band.
FRANK SUTTON | VOCALS & BASS GUITAR
FRANK SUTTON began his career with the Dixie Melody Boys in the 1980's. Frank was initially hired to play bass but within a year he was asked to take over the baritone vocal part & later the tenor for the DMB Band where he stayed until his departure to take care of his new family. After a twenty-five year break from christian music, he was asked to join the guys for a reunion concert with the DMB Band. So, with the band's name change to Jackson Heights, Frank has rejoined the guys touring all across the nation.
Frank now lives with his wife Carol outside of Nashville, TN. They have 3 adult sons Landon, Chance & Logan plus grandson Barrett.
OLAN WITT | DRUMS
OLAN WITT has two passions in life: the Music Business and Ministry. He and his wife Julie live outside Nashville, TN where he owns and operates an entertainer tour bus leasing business along with a tour catering business. He is also actively involved in his home church & loves spending time with his kids & grandkids.