Tim Montana breaking new ground in “local” music

Yesterday I put up an article about Tim Montana being selected as an opener for the huge "Summer of '99" Tour's date this Monday evening in Bridgeport, Conneticut.  The tour is headlined by 90's rock behemoths, Creed, and has been selling out arenes and amphitheaters since they hit the road late last Spring.  A week ago, I had the absolute pleasure of attending their concert in Dallas, TX, and it was one of the best shows I have ever seen.  For any artist or band, this spot is a big damn deal.

Tim was gracious enough to share my article with his legions of fans on Facebook and there was one comment that struck me differently concerning the headline I chose.

"Local Star" - daf**k!  We are listening to your music here in Germany and I got your Shirts and CDs! Rock on big man!

-Raoul Sous via Facebook

I selfishly never thought of it that way, but I have a unique relationship with Tim.  He and I will both tell you that I was the first person to play his music on commercial radio, way, way back in the mid 2000s on my KAAR-FM morning show.  Tim has mentioned it several times, but he didn't have to do it.  It is rare that an artist will give credit to a DJ by name.  But Tim is a rare kind of artist.  I kind of consider him our own, as do many here in the Mining City.

We watched Tim as doors, one by one, opened.  It had seemed like he had finally hit the big time when he played on Late Show with David Letterman.  Yes, THAT Late Show with David Letterman.

The song he performed?  Butte, America.  Perfect.  He represents Butte so well.  One of the things that stands out about Tim (other than his immense musical talent and extreme good-looks) is his demeanor.  Tim is not just nice, but sincere.  He is one of those rare types of people that, by just being him, makes you feel better about yourself.

Good thingshappen to good people. Tim and his family are the best. Good people!

-Debbie Robbins via Facebook

Tim has since collaborated with the cream of the crop in Nashville.  He has a couple of Top 10 records under his belt.  And as we have seen, he is growing a worldwide fan base.  Maybe Tim doesn't just belong to Butte anymore.  He is being claimed by the whole world.  And the world better be damn good and ready.