The Hankers

The Hankers are a dynamic country, southern rock, and blues band who expertly blends extraordinary vocals with a powerhouse of instrumental talent that not only promises to entertain, but will also have the audience hankerin' for more. From the moment that nationally renowned fiddler, and front man, Keith Niehenke steps out on stage and touches bow to fiddle there is not an empty space on the dance floor or wandering eye in the house. Remembered wherever he plays – from Germany to Country Thunder in Wisconsin - and recognized wherever he goes as the energetic and multi-talented artist who plays fiddle behind his back and blows fire from his violin, Keith has been professionally engaging audiences with his unique and amazing musical talents and his heart-stealing smile for 25 years. Keith has preformed all over of the United States, Canada, and Europe, opening for numerous acts including: Chris LeDoux, Blake Shelton, Trace Adkins, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, Montgomery Gentry, Brooks and Dunn, Le Ann Womack, Reba McEntire, Collin Raye, Joan Jett, Big and Rich, Gretchen Wilson, Terri Clark, and many, many more. Not only is Keith an incredible fiddle player, but he is also an accomplished guitar, mandolin, banjo, and harmonica player. Keith has played for The Academy of Country Music Awards, at numerous state and county fairs, festivals, concerts, casinos, and many clubs all over the world. The Hankers also comprises and showcases the wide-ranging and collective talents of the beautiful and vivacious lead singer Julie Layne Niehenke, whose powerfully rich southern voice and energetic stage presence has mesmerized audiences all over the country at many notorious rodeos, state fairs, and numerous sporting and political venues with her incomparable rendition of The National Anthem and so many other beautiful country and blues songs. Lead guitarist Greg Stephens, has also played professionally for 25 years, and has toured all over the word. Bass player Seth Humphrey, is fun, spunky, and known as the band’s “eye-candy” to their audiences. Rounding out this talented line-up is the rock-solid Gary Hassler on Drums. Both Greg and Gary had toured with the USO to places like Japan and Korea, and have opened for many acts such as; Martina McBride, Marty Stuart, and George Jones, and Craig Morgan just to name a few. Seth has opened for many talented artists including; George Jones, Brad Paisley, Tracy Lawrence, and Josh Turner. The Hankers are an energetic group of ticket-worthy musicians who have played with one another for many years. They are available to play for most any crowd; from fairs to clubs to private parties. They are also experienced in playing with and for other artists. High energy fiddle, honky tonk, old & new country, southern rock, & blues band. Stunning Female & male vocals with nationally awarded Nashville musicians.