Carl Meekins

Born in Chesapeake, Virginia, Carl Wayne Meekins knew he loved music early on when he and his brother found their father’s drums in the attic. Carl Wayne would grow up to become a musician himself, touring and playing honky-tonks, fairs, and festivals. He loved every minute, but after years of performing so many genres of music, including everything from rock to Motown and pop, it was always country music that Carl connected with the most. That connection inspired him and his wife Tonya to move to Nashville, where they and their daughter Carlie have lived for over 20 years. While living in the music capital, Meekins built a successful remodeling business. However, in 2020, after a near death experience from Covid. He made a promise to God and himself to pursue his passion for music with a new added focus on sharing his heart and soul. So, he’s been back out there in front of audiences. In fact, he’s got a new EP due out in the Spring, and his recent song, called “Pebble”, emphasizes the impact one can have in the world through simple acts of kindness. The song is very much in step with the way Meekins lives his life. He has an optimistic view of the world and enjoys giving back. In fact, Meekins has given away over 65 guitars in the past couple of years, usually at music festivals, racetracks, and rodeos, where he performs the National Anthem. Most recently, he’s given a guitar to the Virginia Beach Chapter of Guitars 4 Vets. The giveaways are part of his “Play it Forward” campaign. Meekins explains, “Someone gifted me a guitar early on in my life when I couldn’t afford one, and it changed my world forever. Now I can give back.” Carl Wayne’s motto for 2025 is the same as it’s been in previous years, which is: “LET’S GET IT!” Meaning, let’s make some good things happen!